Thunder Bay City Council: Please adopt city administrations' management recommendation to save 50% of eligible ash trees from emerald ash borer (EAB) in the city through inoculations, and remove and replace the rest 1 for 1.  

All untreated ash trees in Thunder Bay will succumb to the EAB, and I want you to commit to saving our tree canopy.  The option for inoculating the eligible existing trees will save money and the numerous benefits the urban forest provides.  Ineligible ash trees (too small, unhealthy, poor structure) that will have to be cut down must be replaced –it is very important to me, and to our city that the tree canopy is maintained and increased.  

As you know, street trees reduce air pollution; increase property values, improve the health of citizens, provide biodiversity, habitat for many species of birds, animals and insects, shade for pedestrians, beautification of areas, storm water management, and soil health. Larger trees provide the most benefits.  It takes a long time for a small tree to truly replace them which equals services lost.  Furthermore, City Council has already recognized the Urban Forest as an essential asset that should continue to grow  in numerous City plans such as the City’s Strategic Plan, EarthCare Sustainability Plan, Stormwater Management Plan, Climate Adaptation Plan.