Over the last few years, the Mendham Township Committee and our Professional Staff have worked with the Mendham Township Department of Public Works and Tree Committee to manage the Ash Tree diseases that have been wreaking havoc on our forests. The Emerald Ash Borer and Yellow Ash Diseases have destroyed tens of thousands of Ash trees throughout our community and have devastated the tree canopy across the Northeast.

Last year, the Township contracted a forester who identified 298 that needed to be removed across Township properties and open spaces. In November 2023, the Mendham Township Committee passed an ordinance allowing for $150,000 to be allocated from the Open Space Trust Fund for the removal of dangerous and infected trees on the Township’s open space and recreation areas frequently used as hiking trails and/or traversed by the public.

As of this week, over 166 dead trees had been removed at a cost of $66,000. However, there are many more to go. Rich’s Tree Service, a state contract vendor, has been doing the work. Rich’s team started with the most dangerous trees and are working down the list. So far, trees have been taken down on Woodland, the Dismal Harmony Parking area, and Patriots Path. This week, trees are being taken down on Old Mill Road and alongside the Brookside Beach fence.

To limit the disturbance of the wildlife habitat and keep our trails open, the Township Committee has adopted a “drop in place” rule. According to the National Wildlife Federation, dead trees provide vital habitat for more than 1,000 species of wildlife nationwide. They also count as cover and places for wildlife to raise their young.

We have also worked out a deal with Rich’s Tree Service to provide our state contract pricing to residents for trees that need to be removed in the right-of-way. If you are interested in this program, please contact Rich’s Trees Service and say that you are a resident of Mendham Township. You will be directed to our contact Mark Amato. He will inspect the trees, schedule the crews, and will bill you directly. Rich’s tree service charges $3,300 for a 10-hour day - it’s about $185 per hour for a 3-person crew with additional fees for equipment (the total is about $330 per hour). If you are interested in this program, please call (908) 755-6008 or email [email protected].

Please reach out if you have any questions.

Thanks,Sarah Neibart

Mayor, Mendham Township