CHRIS RUVO
Upper Makefield officials say they want to encourage sustainability and protect natural resources within the township.
That’s a key reason why the Board of Supervisors recently voted to continue the municipal Tree Grant Program for 2019.
Through the program, residents can receive reimbursement from the township for planting trees.
To be eligible, property owners must plant native Pennsylvanian trees, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas. Areas of focus are riparian buffer zones – essentially areas near streams and creeks; properties where Hurricane Sandy caused tree loss; and properties that promote wildlife habitat for small creatures, such as song birds and butterflies.
For each eligible tree planted, Upper Makefield will reimburse property owners up to $25. The maximum reimbursement per parcel is $300 – or up to 12 trees at $25 per tree.
Notably, the Tree Grant Program offers reimbursements at a rate of $4 per tree to property owners who put protective deer cages or netting around new plantings.
“Tree grants are limited in availability and will be awarded on a first come-first served basis,” the township says. “These grants are funded through contributions from local land developers and not through tax dollars.”
Head to
uppermakefield.org/preservation/riparian-restoration/ to learn more about the program, or call 215-968-3340.
In other news, supervisors recently authorized undertaking a speed study and sight distance review at the intersection of Taylorsville Road and Mt. Eyre Road. Traffic Planning and Design Inc. will do the study, said Township Manager David Nyman.
It’s not yet established when the study will occur. The review is being done to address residents’ concerns about the intersection.
