Macomb chosen for ash tree removal pilot program

Macomb is one of seven communitites in the state chosen for program

Ash tree removal program will save the city thousands of dollars. /KHQA News

MACOMB, ILL. -- The city ofMacombis getting a helping hand fighting the threat of theemerald ash borer.

Macombwas chosen to be one ofseven communities in the state to be part of a pilot program from theIllinois Department of Agriculture.

The city will get between $100,000 to $150,000 to pay for ash tree removal and replanting of new trees in the public right of way.

Outside crews will be responsible for the work.

Mayor Mike Inman says that the city is fortunate to be chosen for the program.

"There's municipalities all across Illinois where there's active infestation that are looking at millions, millions ofinfrastructure improvements to their interior tree program to replace these trees," Inman said. "We're hoping to nip it, so to speak in the bud with this program."

Macomb City Forester Tim Howe says that the infestation is already to close for comfort.

"We're right on the edge of emerald ash borer," Howe said. "It's in the city of Galesburg. It's in the city of Burlington. Both about 50 miles away."

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Macomb chosen for ash tree removal pilot program