Paulding SWCD offers funds for trees

Paulding SWCD information

PAULDING — The Paulding SWCD will be offering money to replace dead ash trees in light of the widespread devastation of native ash trees by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer insect.

Paulding County residents are dealing with the huge task of removing and disposing of hundreds, if not thousands, of dead ash trees in their yards, along highways, and waterways. To many people who loved and appreciated this important tree it is heartbreaking to see this happen. In addition to the loss, there is the unexpected cost. Depending on the size and location of a tree, it can be hundreds of dollars per tree.

The Paulding SWCD is aware of the problem. While there is nothing the SWCD can do to stop the bug and the SWCD does not have enough financial resources to clean up the mess, the agency has a plan to help pay for the cost of planting trees to take the place of the ash tree.

The program is being called the “ash tree replacement incentive”; basically, the SWCD will pay a rebate of up to $150 per household when a paid-in-full receipt from either a contractor or retailer is presented to the SWCD Office. This is a pilot program and funds are limited, therefore, rebates will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Only certain native trees are eligible to be rebated.

Contact the Paulding Soil and Water Conservation District at 419.399.4771 for details on the program.