Ohio Department of Natural Resources expands ash tree removal program |

Removing ash trees from private property just got a little easier with the extension and expansion of the removal program funded by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Forestry, and operated by WSOS Community Action Commission, Inc.

Widespread infestation of the ash borer has left many homeowners in Northwest Ohio, facing unexpected and cost-prohibitive expenses of dead ash tree removal. This program can assist these homeowners.

The Western Lake Erie Basin Residential Ash Tree Removal Program provided through the efforts of U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, will assist in the removal of up to two trees per property owner who has property in Lucas, Wood, Sandusky, Ottawa, or Seneca counties.

Applications are due on or before June 3 and will be available beginning April 1 at any public library; all township, village and city offices; county office’s of the Soil and Water Conservation Districts; and the Ohio State University Extension Offices (Lucas county residents call 419-578-6783 x 14). They are also online at the WSOS and Sandusky River Watershed Coalition websites. 

The program requires that households with incomes less than 300 percent of the federal poverty guideline must provide 35 percent of the cost of the tree removal. Those households over the 300 percent poverty guideline must pay 50 percent of the cost of the tree removal. The income guideline means that annual incomes must be no more than $32,670 for a single-person household and up to $89,970 for a six-person household. Residents will be asked to provide proof of income.   

The homeowner may choose to pay the 35 or 50 percent in cash match by paying tree removal only or a combination of stump grinding and tree removal. In addition, the tree must be an ash tree and must pose a threat to a structure or play area.

Applications and more information are available from your local OSU Extension County office, or by calling Cindy Brookes at 419-334-5016 or by visiting the following websites: www.wsos.org and www.sanduskyriver.org