Mindowaskin Park Diseased Tree Removal: Road Closures Possible

WESTFIELD, NJ - Mindowaskin Park’s long-term tree care plan may prompt road closures in the park during tree removal, officials said.

The comprehensive care plan, spurred from an analysis by the Public Works Forestry Division in partnership with The Friends of Mindowaskin Park, Inc. (FOMP) and the Town's Tree Preservation Commission (TPC), involves tree removal and replacement of diseased trees, Westfield officials said in a statement via social media.

The FOMP also contributed a $20K donation to the project, officials said.

Ongoing maintenance and pruning is also part of the care plan, both set to better the long-term health of the park's trees.

Phase I of the plan involves the removal of 11 trees that pose “structural and safety issues” due to bacterial leaf scorch disease and emerald ash bore insect infestation, officials said. To remove the trees, cranes will be used, which may close portions of Park Drive for periods of time.

The diseased trees will be replaced in later phases, Westfield officials said. Additional phases are scheduled to take place over the next 18-24 months.

“Do not be alarmed when you see the removal of some significant trees that are diseased and dying,” Mayor Shelley Brindle said in a statement. “Please be assured that the trees will be replaced with healthy species in order to ensure that Mindowaskin Park continues to be a treasured community landmark.”