CLEARFIELD – The Shade Tree Commission of Clearfield Borough has been hard at work, despite being down to one member.
Nan Rougeux, the lone member of the committee, addressed borough council Thursday about an inventory of trees that has been in the works for the borough.
Rougeux also noted that 16 trees were removed from Park Avenue during the sanitary sewer upgrade there. She said each of the trees had been hit during an automobile accident at least once. The trees will be replaced, but not until the spring. Smaller trees will likely take the place of the larger ones that were removed.
Todd Banks, borough engineer with Stiffler, McGraw and Associates, told the council that there is an application process that must be completed through the state Department of Transportation before the trees can be replaced. He said the paperwork is under review by the borough solicitor.
Rougeux also reminded the council that trees cannot be removed pruned or planted within the borough limits without obtaining a permit first. Clearfield Borough Code Enforcement Officer Jim Kling said such permits are free of charge.
Rougeux said the need for the permit ensures that the tree inventory can be updated.
“Trees really play an important role in our town,” she said.
Rougeux also noted that the Shade Tree Commission is in need of members. Those interested should contact the borough office.