The City of Owen Sound is preparing to address hazardous trees within its urban forest, with scheduled removals set to begin next week. Following an updated municipal tree inventory, crews will focus on removing trees classified as high and very high hazards.
Work will officially start on September 14, subject to weather conditions, and will be carried out by contractor Alexandria Tree Services. The initiative targets approximately 294 trees that have been identified as severe safety risks due to structural defects, emerald ash borer damage, or advanced decline.
Operations will initially focus on areas with minimal impact on local residents and traffic, such as ravines, before moving into residential neighbourhoods and higher-use zones as conditions allow. Homeowners with trees scheduled for removal adjacent to their properties will receive advance notice directly from the contractor.
The municipality's updated inventory currently tracks 22,039 public trees, supporting the community's standing as a designated Tree City of the World. Residents who observe potentially hazardous trees on municipal property can submit a report through the "Report a Concern – Tree Issue" form on the city's website.
