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Tree Warden

David Mance


The tree warden is appointed by the selectboard and has the responsibility of caring for the shade and ornamental trees in public ways and places. He or she does not have to be a resident of the town to undertake these duties, and may also appoint and dismiss deputies. He or she acts as overseer of public trees, organizing and implementing tree planting, maintenance and protection programs.

The tree warden also enforces all laws relating to public shade and ornamental trees. These regulations become effective when adopted as local ordinances under authority of 24 V.S.A. 2506 and 24 V.S.A. Chapter 59.

There are penalties for the destruction of public shade trees and anyone who willfully injures or destroys such a tree may be fined up to $500 for each tree so damaged.

The Tree Warden has three major responsibilities:

• To direct removal of trees that are dangerous to the health of other trees.
• To encourage the well-being of those public trees that are in good condition.
• To implement a tree preservation program for the town.