52 SHADE TREES. 



SHADE TREE COMMISSION. 



Where a community interest in shade trees has been 

 awakened the best way to get things done is to organize a 

 shade tree commission. The State laws give ample powers 

 to such bodies and one properly supported by local ordi- 

 nances and reasonable appropriations will soon change the 

 sylvic aspect of a municipality. The only objection to the 

 laAvs as they stand that is of importance concerns itself with 

 the unusual powers granted a Shade Tree Commission. The 

 answer is that in practice the laws have worked no injury 

 or injustice but have enabled several communities to care 

 for their trees systematically and effectively. 



An individual may do the right things for the trees in 

 front of his property and the community get the benefit, but 

 ordinarily his interest is spasmodic and apt to 

 be ineffective. He neglects to have his trees 

 fed, or doctored, or trimmed, or he employs a 

 butcher who spoils them. A shade tree commission can pre- 

 vent abuses and require symmetrical planting, can doctor, 

 prune and spray, can make terms with the gas company and 

 electric company and save the owner all trouble. Some 

 property owners do not want to give over to a public body 

 the care of trees which they have planted and nurtured. 

 The position, though understandable, is unreasonable in a 

 day when utilities and conveniences are developed for the 

 advantage of the public. As well might each property owner 

 insist on being allowed to do as he pleased respecting side- 

 walks, curbing, sewers. If every owner must dedicate a 

 part of his property to the public for these purposes, he can 

 quite as reasonably yield the care of Ids shade trees that 

 his neighbors as well as himself may be lienefited. An active 

 Shade Tree Commission can do much good also by anticipat- 

 pian for S municipal improvements and harmonizing 



the future. various interests. Where streets are repaved 

 or grades changed an agreement with the engineers will save 

 many an old tree from destruction. In not a few instances 

 in this State has the want of co-operation, or co-ordination 

 of duties and interests, deprived a town of trees that cannot 

 be replaced. In new work the same unity is quite as neces- 



