Ken-Caryl parks staff outlines 2026 tree program; emerald ash borer injections to begin

Parks staff presented the district’s 2026 ‘State of Our Trees’ report, saying the program has moved from early large-scale removals to an emphasis on maintenance, pruning, targeted spraying for pine pests and planting a diverse canopy.

Richard and Gigi described a multiyear approach: earlier years focused on removing dangerous trees and catching up on deferred maintenance; in 2026 the district plans to prioritize maintenance, diverse plantings and protection of memorial trees. Staff explained they chose contracting to address staffing limits and to provide consistent maintenance work.

On emerald ash borer (EAB), staff said the pest has not been detected inside the community but is nearby and that the district will start injections on select ash trees at district facilities and high-priority sites. As Gigi stated, “We’ll be starting that here this month or early next with the injections,” emphasizing the program targets trees the district wants to save and that treatment timelines depend on stage of infection.

Board discussion praised staff for progress on tree management and encouraged continued outreach to residents about the reasons for removals and planting choices. Staff said available funding and interagency coordination make the program feasible, and they will continue reporting on canopy health and program outcomes.

Next steps: implement injection program for high-priority ash trees, continue pine-beetle spraying, proceed with planting and scheduled pruning; staff will report back to the board on mid-year results and community outreach efforts.