Moree Plains Shire Council concerns over drought impact on established trees

As drought continues to maintain its steadfast grip on inland northern NSW, the preservation of established trees in Moree Plains Shire Council’s urban centres is becoming a concern for Council and residents alike.

Moree Plains Shire Council’s Director of Engineering Ian Dinham this week advised “Council works hard to maintain the visual amenity of our urban centres and we are fortunate that currently there is no shortage of town water so we are able to continue to maintain our open spaces to a high standard.

“However, the drought is having a real impact on the established trees on street verges across our townships and villages, with a number dying or browning off.”

Dinham explained that Council’s Urban and Open Space crews undertake manual watering of hundreds of trees across the Shire in parks and streetscapes including all main approaches to town and along the bypass two days a week. However, the staff are struggling to keep up as many trees are now under threat.

He added “we know that residents in our shire share Council’s passion for our local environment and open spaces and we would like to ask that they take the time to water the trees on the verges outside their homes, as Council cannot get to every single tree.

“A bucket of water a week costs only a few cents, and can make all the difference during this prolonged drought.”

Trees are such an important asset to the towns and communities of the area and Moree Plains Shire Council acknowledges the attention being given to keeping them alive and healthy by many local residents.

Image courtesy of Moree Plains Shire Council.