TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON—Graduate students from Montclair State University will assess the local tree canopy and measure carbon monoxide levels in the township as part of a study conducted in partnership with the township’s Green Team, Councilman Tom Sears announced at the Nov. 12 council meeting.
Sears noted that the township’s tree canopy has been shrinking steadily and now covers only approximately 46% of the area, a decline attributed to the loss of several thousand trees. The study aims to identify where new trees are most needed and to pinpoint carbon monoxide sources.
“Even if we put back just 10% more trees, it will really help us out,” Sears said.
This initiative follows a summer study by five graduate student interns from PSEG’s Sustainability Green Teams Program, also based at Montclair State University. (See “Students Propose Three Tools vs. Flooding” by Michael Olohan, Aug. 10, 2024.)
Also on Nov. 12, the council approved a $20,600 contract with Amoroso Tree Service for tree removal and replanting at Gardner Field.
Administrator Mark DiCarlo will explore replanting options for Carriage Court trees along the Garden State Parkway, addressing liability concerns.