Hub Staff

The removal of approximately 500 Ash trees infested with the invasive Emerald Ash Borer at Fairy Lake was approved during the December 12 Saugeen Shores Council meeting. Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA)’s Forestry Department will act as project managers.

See: Beetle infestation likely to lead to considerable tree loss

“It’s going to look relatively ugly,” said Saugeen Shores Director of Parks and Recreation Jayne Jageleswki, who added there was no choice as it was either remove the trees or close Fairy Lake. “We presented to Council tonight because we want to expedite this process. We want to be able to do this work during the course of the winter months, dependent on weather, but there will be less of an impact on the environment if we can do it during the winter months.”

In total, $225,000 has been set aside for the project, where $187,500 will go towards the Ash tree removal, $25,000 will go toward planting trees that are native to the area, with the remaining $12,500 going to the SVCA.

In her report to Council, Jagelewski said the Town will be proactive in their communication strategy, which will include messages through the media and public information sessions. Once the project is tendered, Fairy Lake will be closed until July 1, to keep park patrons safe. Town staff hopes Fairy Lake reopens on Canada’s 150th birthday.

The director said that once the trees are cleared, nature will do its work. “Now that it’s exposed to sunlight, nature will rebirth itself and we will see trees coming up quite aggressively and quite quickly, but to assist with that process we will be also planting trees within that area,” with the help of community groups such as SauGreen.

Where possible, any wood that is merchantable, and will not contribute to the spread of Emerald Ash Borer, will be recycled into other uses such as firewood, furniture and lumber.