What’s Happening in the Parks

The week ahead

Fort Wayne, Ind. – The following events and programs are happening the week ahead:

 

Reminder:

 Green Thumb Garden Tour

Sunday, March 17, 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Park Foundation Pavilion

Do you love plants, have an interest in native gardens or want to grow your own food? Whether or not your thumb is green, there is plenty to learn at this free community event! There will be multiple workshops, activities and displays from local organizations like the Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District and Save the Maumee Grassroots Organization. You could win a free plant at the Plant Walk. Listen to a speaker at 1:00 p.m. about planning your own native garden and prepare yourself for a year of gardening and planting!

What’s Happening in the Parks

The week ahead

Fort Wayne, Ind. – The following events and programs are happening the week ahead:

 
Reminder:

 The Great Train Connection

Friday – Sunday, March 8 – 10, public hours

Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 South Calhoun Street

All aboard the Botanical Conservatory’s Great Train Connection! As part of this special event, journey through the profuse railroad history of Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana, maneuver trains via timesaver switching puzzles and imagine yourself the conductor of various model train sets ranging from tiny N scale up to G scale. It’s a “freight time” for the whole family—especially the littlest engines. General admission fees apply. Sponsored by: US 93.3.

What’s Happening in the Parks

The week ahead 

 

Fort Wayne, Ind. – The following events and programs are happening the week ahead:

 

Reminder:

Concert on the Farm

Sunday, August 20, 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Salomon Farm Park, 317 West Dupont Road

Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and sample the music of Rosalind & the Way, The Legendary Train Hoppers, Debutants and The Hubie Ashcraft Band in a relaxing country setting. Gates will open at 1:45 p.m. and the music will begin at 2:15 p.m. in the Historic Old Barn. Admission is $5 per person. Concert on the Farm is sponsored by Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation and US 93.3.

 

Featuring:

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

Tuesday, August 22, 7:30 p.m.

Foellinger Theatre, 3411 Sherman Street

Iconic musical artists Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo return to the Foellinger Theatre with the Funtastic 2023 tour. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the Parks and Recreation Department, 705 East State Blvd. during regular office hours or at the Foellinger Theatre Box Office from 6:00 –10:00 p.m. on concert days.

Q. Why should the City invest in trees?

Q. Which trees are maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department?

Q. Who is responsible for maintaining the trees located in alleys?

Q. Who is responsible for maintaining trees on empty lots?

Q. My street tree needs to be pruned? Will you prune it?

Q. One of your street trees is obstructing the view of my business sign. Can it be pruned or removed to improve visibility?

Q. Can I prune a tree myself in the street right of way?

Q. Where can I dispose of privately-owned tree limbs or debris?

Q. My neighbor's tree is causing an issue over the sidewalk/street. Will you trim it?

Q. What if I (intentionally or unintentionally) damage or remove a city-owned tree?

Q. How do you determine which trees to remove?

Q. What if I'd like my street tree to be removed?

Q. I told you about a tree concern and nothing is being done. Why?

Q. They came and cut the tree but the stump is still there and needs to be removed. Is the stump removal scheduled?

Q. The stump in front of my home was removed, but the grass never grew. Will the city come back and reseed the site?

Q. What if the roots from a street tree are lifting up the sidewalk?

Q. Tree roots have entered my sewer line. Will you remove the tree to resolve this?

Q. A street tree or street tree limb has fallen down. What should I do?

Q. We just had a storm and there are trees/tree limbs down throughout my neighborhood. Should I report this? When will it be cleaned up?

Q. Forestry crews came and removed a fallen tree limb from the roadway, but they put it in my yard. Will they be back to finish the job?

Q. A tree was just removed in front of my home, can I expect a replacement?

Q. I’d like to plant a tree in memory of a loved one. Does the Parks Department offer any programs for this?

Q. I anticipate a tree being planted outside of my home. When can I expect this to happen?

Q. My recently planted tree isn’t looking good. If it dies, will you replace it?

Q. Why don’t you water our newly planted trees?

Q. Why do you plant trees in the fall, rather than spring?

Q. A new tree was just planted in front of my home. What can I do to ensure that it thrives in its new home?

Q. Can I plant a tree myself in the street right of way?

Q. I have a nest of bees in the city-owned tree by my home, what should I do?

Q. Can I get woodchips or firewood from the trees that you remove?

Q. Can I remove downed trees/tree limbs from the parks for personal use?

Q. What are you doing about the Callery pear problem?

Q. My utility provider just pruned the trees by my house, and it looks terrible. What can I do now?

Q. What if I have questions about street trees? Is there someone I can e-mail?

 

Q. Why should the City invest in trees?

Investing in trees is a multifaceted strategy that yields environmental, economic, social, and health benefits. By recognizing the value of urban forests and green spaces, cities can create more resilient, vibrant, and sustainable communities for current and future generations. Here are several compelling reasons why it’s important to continue investing in trees:

  1. Environmental Benefits:
    • Air Quality Improvement: Trees absorb pollutants and release oxygen, contributing to improved air quality. They filter out harmful particles and reduce the concentration of pollutants in the air.
    • Carbon Sequestration: Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and helping mitigate the effects of climate change.
  2. Economic Value:
    • Increased Property Values: Tree-lined streets and green spaces enhance the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods, leading to increased property values and attracting potential homebuyers.
    • Energy Savings: Strategically planted trees around buildings can provide shade, reducing the need for air conditioning in the summer and lowering energy costs.
  3. Social and Health Benefits:
    • Improved Mental Health: Access to green spaces and the presence of trees have been linked to reduced stress, improved mental well-being, and enhanced overall quality of life.
    • Recreation and Community Spaces: Trees provide shaded areas for outdoor activities, creating inviting spaces for community gatherings, social interactions, and recreation.
  4. Biodiversity and Habitat:
    • Support for Wildlife: Trees serve as habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife, contributing to urban biodiversity and creating healthier ecosystems within city environments.
  5. Stormwater Management:
    • Reduced Runoff: Trees absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff and the risk of flooding. They also help filter pollutants from rainwater before it enters water bodies.
  6. Public Health:
    • Temperature Regulation: Trees provide natural cooling, mitigating the urban heat island effect and reducing extreme temperatures in urban areas.
    • Respiratory Health: Improved air quality resulting from tree cover contributes to better respiratory health for city residents.
  7. Community Engagement:
    • Volunteer Opportunities: Tree planting and maintenance initiatives offer opportunities for community engagement and volunteer involvement, fostering a sense of civic pride and environmental stewardship.
  8. Long-Term Cost Savings:
    • Infrastructure Maintenance: Trees can help extend the lifespan of roads and sidewalks by reducing heat-related stress and preventing soil erosion, leading to potential long-term cost savings for municipalities.
  9. Compliance with Sustainability Goals:
    • Green City Initiatives: Investing in trees aligns with sustainability goals and green city initiatives. Many cities aspire to enhance their green infrastructure to create more sustainable and resilient urban environments.

Q. Which trees are maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department?

Generally speaking, those intentionally planted trees which are in the publicly owned right of way.  This may include trees which you have purchased and planted yourself.  Allen County GIS Data Viewer (http://www.acimap.us/viewer.html) is an internet-based resource that can help with determining where the right of way is located.  Trees located in wooded areas within the publicly owned right of way are maintained for roadway safety only.  Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is also responsible for maintaining trees located within the manicured portions of City owned parks.  This amounts to about 50,000 trees located within the public right of way and another 20,000 within our 89 parks. 

Q. Who is responsible for maintaining the trees located in alleys?

It is essential to clarify that the trees in the alleys are considered private property, and as such, any maintenance needs are the responsibility of the tree owner. This includes tasks such as pruning, watering, and addressing any issues related to the health and condition of the tree.

Q. Who is responsible for maintaining trees on empty lots?

Trees on empty lots are considered part of the property and fall under the ownership responsibility of the lot owner.  Lots owned by the City of Fort Wayne do not fall under the Forestry Divisions purview.

Q. My street tree needs to be pruned? Will you prune it?

We will evaluate specific tree concerns on an individual basis, taking into account factors such as health, structural integrity, and potential risks.  To report a tree concern, submit a service request via 311 Citizen Services by dialing “311” from your phone and speaking with a Call Center representative.  Doing so will initiate a prompt inspection by one of our Certified Arborists. These professionals have advanced training in tree risk assessment and are well-equipped to evaluate the condition of the tree in question.  Following the inspection, any necessary tree work will be prioritized according to the associated risk. Our goal is to address high-priority concerns first to ensure the safety of residents and property.

Q. One of your street trees is obstructing the view of my business sign. Can it be pruned or removed to improve visibility?

In our city, we recognize green infrastructure as a key component for maintaining a vibrant and resilient urban environment. Trees play a crucial role in enhancing air quality, providing shade, reducing urban heat islands, and supporting overall ecological balance. As such, the City of Fort Wayne does not authorize tree maintenance with the specific intent of improving marketing campaigns or commercial sign visibility.

Our commitment to green infrastructure aligns with our broader goals of creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious community. While we understand the importance of business visibility, our focus remains on the overall health and well-being of our urban forest and the benefits it brings to our residents.

Q. Can I prune a tree myself in the street right of way?

We encourage community members to take an active role in the well-being of street trees. Pruning, when done correctly, can contribute to the overall health and aesthetics of the tree. However, to ensure that the pruning process aligns with the city's guidelines and the tree's long-term health, we recommend the following:

  1. Consultation with a Certified Arborist:
    • Before initiating any pruning, we suggest consulting with a certified arborist. They can provide valuable insights into the specific needs of the tree, ensuring that the pruning is conducted in a manner that promotes its health and structural integrity.
  2. Selective Pruning Practices:
    • Focus on selective pruning rather than indiscriminate cutting. Target dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and avoid excessive removal of healthy foliage.
  3. Avoiding Harm to the Tree:
    • Be cautious not to cause harm to the tree, such as over-pruning or making improper cuts. The goal is to enhance the tree's form while maintaining its overall health.
  4. Disposal of Pruned Material:
    • Properly dispose of pruned material according to local waste management regulations.

Q. Where can I dispose of privately-owned tree limbs or debris?

Fort Wayne's Biosolids Handling Facility accepts yard waste and is located at 6202 Lake Avenue.  Please visit https://www.cityoffortwayne.org/utilities/3958-biosolids.html for more information

Q. My neighbor's tree is causing an issue over the sidewalk/street. Will you trim it?

Our jurisdiction and resources are primarily focused on public spaces, such as parks and trees within the public right-of-way. For trees located on private property, the responsibility for maintenance, care, and any associated concerns lies with the property owner.  While we are not be able to directly address concerns with privately owned trees, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in resolving these matters at the property owner's level.

Q. What if I (intentionally or unintentionally) damage or remove a city-owned tree?

Whether the damage is above or below the ground, this constitutes Destruction of City Property and you will be required to pay for the treatment or replacement of the impacted tree. 

The Fort Wayne Parks Department, with the approval of the Board of Park Commissioners, has adopted and shall enforce a Tree Protection Policy for any and all trees under the jurisdiction of the Parks Department.  It is our responsibility to protect the health of all street trees and park trees with due diligence.  In short, the Tree Protection Policy states:

  • No party shall install nails, screws, staples, tacks, wire or other metal or synthetic fasteners or ties onto any structural member of a City tree, including trunks and scaffold branches. Any temporary attachments should be made with natural fiber jute or sisal twine and removed as soon as possible.
  • Lighting and other electrical equipment shall not be permanently attached to trees. Strings of low wattage lights, remaining no more than 60 days at a time may be permitted with the approval of The Superintendent of Urban Forestry & City Arborist, provided the installation means do no damage to the tree.
  • No party shall perform any maintenance practice on a City tree not in accord with this section, except with permission of The Superintendent of Urban Forestry & City Arborist under justified circumstances.
  • No party shall pile organic or stone mulch over the root system of a City tree in excess of 2” depth. No mulch shall contact the tree trunk and other above ground flare roots.
  • No party shall strike, cut, tear, abrade, break, remove or otherwise physically mutilate a City tree without authorization of the City Forester.
  • No party shall damage the growing environment of a City tree, such as by poisoning the soil with salts, chemicals, herbicides or by exposing trees to excessive heat, cold or damaging fumes, outside of normal growing conditions.
  • Soils within the root zone of the tree shall not be compacted, excavated or filled over without the approval of The Superintendent of Urban Forestry & City Arborist to determine the potential for damage and loss and how these may be prevented or remediated.
  • Removal of live trees that pose no safety or liability hazard for the public is discouraged. Removal of trees or their parts requires the approval of The Superintendent of Urban Forestry & City Arborist. Removal of live City-owned trees and their parts to increase visibility to outdoor advertising requires approval of the Board of Park Commissioners.

Q. How do you determine which trees to remove?

Each summer, qualified forestry staff (ISA Certified Arborist with advanced training in tree risk assessment) drive every street and evaluate the street trees by windshield survey with the intent of identifying trees in a condition that warrants removal. Determining whether a tree should be removed is a careful process that involves assessing various factors related to the tree's health, safety, and environmental impact. Once identified, tree removal is scheduled as resources permit and according to a priority rating as determined by inspection.

Q. What if I'd like my street tree to be removed?

If there are specific health or structure concerns about a particular tree or area, we encourage you to reach out via 311 Citizen Services by dialing “311” from your phone speaking with a Call Center representative.  We will then assess the situation to determine the most appropriate course of action. 

We understand that the perception of a messy tree may vary among residents. However, our approach is to carefully consider the broader ecological impact and community benefits before making decisions about tree removal. Trees contribute significantly to the overall health and beauty of our environment, offering a range of ecological, aesthetic, and environmental benefits. While it's understandable that some trees may shed leaves, flowers, or other organic material, the decision to remove a tree is not based on its "messiness."

Q. I told you about a tree concern and nothing is being done. Why?

We appreciate and value the numerous tree-related service requests we receive from our community members and share your commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing urban environment through proper tree care. As much as we would like to respond promptly to every request for tree-related services, it is important to acknowledge the constraints posed by our available resources. Our dedicated team endeavors to address all concerns, but we must prioritize our efforts based on the level of risk presented by each situation.

While we understand that all tree-related concerns are important, this prioritization approach helps us direct our efforts where they are needed most urgently. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. If you have submitted a service request, please be assured that we are diligently working on our list and will address concerns as efficiently as possible.

While it is essential to manage and minimize potential risks through proper tree care, regular inspections, and appropriate maintenance practices, it's also crucial to recognize that living in a tree-rich environment involves a level of coexistence with the dynamic and evolving nature of trees. By understanding and accepting these inherent risks, we can foster a healthier and more resilient relationship with the valuable trees that contribute so much to our communities.

Q. They came and cut the tree but the stump is still there and needs to be removed. Is the stump removal scheduled?

Yes, following the trees’ removal, the remaining stump is inventoried and scheduled for removal as resources permit.  Typically, this work is completed within 1-year of tree removal.

Q. The stump in front of my home was removed, but the grass never grew. Will the city come back and reseed the site?

No, our stump removal contractor has completed the work in full compliance with the required specifications. However, effective turf establishment may require some assistance from adjacent property owners. Here are a few suggestions to support the regrowth process:

  1. Proper Watering: Ensure that the area receives adequate and consistent watering. Newly exposed soil can dry out quickly, impacting grass regrowth. Water the area regularly to promote seed germination and establish a healthy turf.
  2. Grass Seeding: If not already done, consider overseeding the affected area with grass seed. Choose a seed mix suitable for your region and soil type. Follow the recommended seeding rates and guidelines for optimal results.
  3. Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for grass growth. This will help support the development of a lush and healthy lawn in the restored area.
  4. Sunlight Exposure: Grass requires sunlight for photosynthesis and healthy growth. Ensure that the reseeded area receives sufficient sunlight by trimming back any overhanging branches or foliage that may be shading the site.
  5. Patience and Monitoring: Establishing new turf can take time. Be patient and monitor the area regularly to track progress. It's normal for grass to take some time to germinate and grow, especially after significant ground disturbance.

Q. What if the roots from a street tree are lifting up the sidewalk?

Forestry staff makes determinations concerning trees only.  They will come out to evaluate the condition of the tree if necessary, but will not make determinations on the condition of sidewalks.  You can report sidewalk concerns by dialing “311” from your phone and speaking a Call Center representative.       

Q. Tree roots have entered my sewer line. Will you remove the tree to resolve this?

No, It is a common misconception that tree roots can penetrate sewer pipes on their own. In reality, tree roots do not actively seek out and penetrate healthy pipes. Instead, issues arise when pipes are compromised, allowing roots to exploit existing openings.  Tree roots move throughout the soil in search of water and air. Offending tree roots are taking advantage of a break or leak caused by something else such as aging pipes or faulty joints.  Repairing the compromised pipe is the only solution.  Removing the tree will not resolve this issue.  

Q. A street tree or street tree limb has fallen down. What should I do?

It is impossible to maintain trees free of risk; some level of risk must be accepted to experience the benefits that trees provide.  Fortunately, serious damage, injury, or death from tree failure is uncommon. Most tree failures occur during periods of adverse weather.

In the event that a street tree or street tree limb does fail, please create a service request with 311 Citizen Services by dialing “311” from your phone and speaking with a Call Center representative.

Q. We just had a storm and there are trees/tree limbs down throughout my neighborhood.  Should I report this? When will it be cleaned up?

Yes, if the fallen tree or limb originated from a tree located within the publicly owned right of way.   This can be done by creating a service request with 311 Citizen Services by dialing “311” from your phone speaking with a Call Center representative.  Creating a service request helps us track of all of the reported tree-related issues resulting from the storm event.  Depending on the severity of the storm event, clean-up efforts can take weeks or even months to complete.

Q. Forestry crews came and removed a fallen tree limb from the roadway, but they put it in my yard. Will they be back to finish the job?

Following a storm, our first priority in the forestry division is to open roadways as efficiently as possible to ensure the safety and accessibility of our community. To achieve this, our teams may need to push, drag, or pull debris from the road onto front lawns temporarily.

Here's why this process is necessary:

  1. Emergency Road Clearance: The immediate focus is on clearing roadways to allow for emergency vehicles and essential services to navigate the area safely. This helps us respond quickly to any urgent situations and ensures the overall safety of the community.
  2. Publicly Owned Trees: If the fallen debris originates from publicly owned trees, our forestry staff will return to address and remove it as part of our commitment to maintaining public spaces and infrastructure.
  3. Property Owner Responsibilities: However, if the debris in your front lawn does not originate from a publicly owned tree, we kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation. In such cases, it becomes the responsibility of the property owner to resolve the issue.

Q. A tree was just removed in front of my home, can I expect a replacement?

Trees play a pivotal role in creating a healthier and more vibrant community, and your interest in contributing to this cause is truly commendable. The City of Fort Wayne has approximately 40,000 vacant planting sites and funding to plant about 1000 trees annually.  For this reason, we are not able to plant trees based on request alone.  If you would like to request that a tree be planted within the Right-of-Way adjacent of your home, please consider our Citizen Match Tree Planting Program.  This is a cost-sharing program with applications available yearly between February and July 1st.  To ensure that you have the best fit for your street tree, it is important to evaluate the location you are considering and then select the best tree to fit the space. This list includes some of the best varieties of the hardiest trees for planting along our city streets.

Q. I’d like to plant a tree in memory of a loved one. Does the Parks Department offer any programs for this?

Yes, more information can be found by visiting the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation website. https://www.fortwayneparks.org/trails/memorial-bench-tree.html

Q. I anticipate a tree being planted outside of my home. When can I expect this to happen?

Our tree-planting contractor has been assigned the task of planting as many as 1,000 trees from October 1st to December 31st, which is the designated timeframe for our fall tree planting contract. During this period, our contractor has the flexibility to implement the planting plan based on their expertise and in adherence to industry best practices.  We appreciate your understanding of the contractor's autonomy in completing this task and trust in their expertise to execute the planting plan successfully.

Not all tree species prefer fall planting, and there are indeed exceptions. While fall is generally our preference, some species will be planted in the spring.

Q. My recently planted tree isn’t looking good. If it dies, will you replace it?

We purchase and plant trees with a 1-year warranty, and any tree that fails our warranty inspection will be replaced at no cost to you or the City (1 time). We take the health of our urban forest seriously, and our commitment extends to ensuring that our residents have healthy, flourishing trees on their properties.

To address the current situation, we kindly encourage you to review and implement our recommendations for caring for your new tree. Proper care is crucial for the successful establishment of young trees. Here are some general tips:

  1. Watering: Ensure the tree receives sufficient water, especially during dry periods. Young trees may require more frequent watering until they are well-established.
  2. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulates temperature, and suppresses weeds.
  3. Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done with care and in accordance with best practices.
  4. Fertilization: Follow recommended fertilization practices to provide essential nutrients for the tree. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can be detrimental to young trees.
  5. Protection: Be mindful of potential sources of damage, such as lawnmowers or other equipment. Protect the trunk from physical injury.

If, despite your efforts and adherence to these recommendations, the tree does not thrive and fails our warranty inspection, we will replace it at no cost to you.

Q. Why don’t you water our newly planted trees?

As part of our commitment to fiscal responsibility, we have made the decision not to implement a watering program for newly planted trees. The cost associated with watering nearly triples our tree planting expenses, and we aim to strike a balance between fiscal responsibility and the long-term health of our urban forest.

Key points to note:

  1. Cost Consideration:
    • Implementing a watering program for newly planted trees would significantly increase our tree planting costs, which could impact the overall sustainability of our initiatives.
  2. Historical Survival Rates:
    • On average, we observe less than a 10% loss of newly planted trees. Our team takes pride in carefully selecting and planting trees that are well-suited to the local environment, contributing to their overall resilience.
  3. Community Involvement:
    • We invite and encourage community members to actively participate in the after-planting care of our trees. Your involvement in watering, mulching, and monitoring the health of these trees plays a vital role in their successful establishment.
  4. Information and Resources:
    • We will provide resources and information on proper after-planting care practices to empower community members. This includes guidance on watering schedules, mulching, and early detection of any potential issues.

By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, we believe that together, we can create a sustainable and thriving urban forest. Your engagement and commitment to after-planting care contribute significantly to the success of our community greening initiatives.

Q. Why do you plant trees in the fall, rather than spring?

Because we don’t have an established watering program, planting trees in the fall is advantageous for several reasons.  Here are some key benefits of fall tree planting compared to spring:

  1. Root Growth:
    • During the fall, the soil is still warm from the summer months, promoting active root growth. This allows newly planted trees to establish a strong root system before the onset of winter dormancy, increasing their chances of survival.
  2. Soil Conditions:
    • Fall offers favorable soil conditions with sufficient moisture and warmth. Planting in fall allows trees to take advantage of these conditions, encouraging robust root development and nutrient uptake.
  3. Reduced Transpiration Stress:
    • In fall, cooler temperatures result in lower rates of transpiration (water loss through leaves). This reduces stress on newly planted trees, allowing them to focus on root establishment without the added pressure of high water demand.
  4. Less Watering Required:
    • Cooler temperatures in fall mean less evaporation, reducing the need for frequent watering compared to the warmer spring and summer months. Trees can access available moisture more efficiently during the establishment period.
  5. Reduced Risk of Heat Stress:
    • Planting in the fall minimizes the risk of heat stress that young trees may experience if planted during the hot and dry conditions of late spring or summer.
  6. Establishment Before Winter:
    • Trees planted in the fall have a longer period to establish their root systems before winter arrives. This early establishment enhances their ability to withstand winter conditions and prepares them for vigorous spring growth.
  7. Immediate Growth in Spring:
    • Trees planted in the fall are well-positioned to start growing vigorously in the following spring. With a strong root system in place, they can allocate energy towards above-ground growth, resulting in healthier and more resilient trees.
  8. Dormancy Transition:
    • Fall planting allows trees to transition smoothly into dormancy, which is a natural state for many tree species during winter. This dormancy period provides an opportunity for the tree to acclimate to its new environment before resuming active growth in spring.

Q. A new tree was just planted in front of my home. What can I do to ensure that it thrives in its new home?

Post-planting tree care is essential for the long-term health and success of newly planted trees. While planting a tree is a significant step in enhancing the environment, providing ongoing care is crucial to ensure its survival and optimal growth. Find out more about caring for your new tree here.   

Q. Can I plant a tree myself in the street right of way?

We appreciate your enthusiasm for enhancing our green spaces. However, for liability reasons, we cannot grant permission for individuals to plant trees on publicly owned property.

Q. I have a nest of bees in the city-owned tree by my home, what should I do?

Because honeybees are tremendously beneficial to our environment and generally not aggressive, we recommend making every effort to protect them.  We do not respond to these requests but most local pest control companies will assist you in removing wasp and hornet nests.   

Q. Can I get woodchips or firewood from the trees that you remove?

We are currently unable to fulfill every request for wood chip deliveries due to operational constraints and potential negative impacts on our production.  We understand that wood chips are valuable for various purposes, and we appreciate your interest in utilizing them. While we cannot accommodate individual deliveries at this time, we recommend exploring alternative sources for wood chips, such as local landscaping suppliers,  tree care companies, and Fort Wayne’s Biosolids.

Q. Can I remove downed trees/tree limbs from the parks for personal use?

For liability reasons, we cannot offer permission for individuals to remove woody debris from the parks.

Q. What are you doing about the Callery pear problem?

It's not uncommon for well-intentioned decisions to have unintended consequences, especially when it comes to planting species that later prove to be invasive or have negative impacts on the local ecosystem.  Understanding that resource constraints limit our ability to remove and replace all of our Callery pear trees at once, we are actively removing them as resources permit.  Additionally, we hope to leverage community involvement by offering residents permission to contract the removal of these invasive trees from the publicly owned right of way without hesitation. 

If you are considering removing a pear street tree, you will need permission first.  This allows us to confirm that the tree is, in fact, a pear tree and helps maintain accuracy within our street tree inventory.  This can be done by dialing “311” on you phone and speaking with a Call Center representative.         

 

Q. My utility provider just pruned the trees by my house, and it looks terrible. What can I do now?

This work was necessary to ensure reliable electric power.  Large trees and overhead utilities do not co-exist well and periodic line clearance work is required to maintain electric lines; often times at the expense of trees.  Fort Wayne Parks does not do this work.  For questions concerning powerline tree clearance, please contact the AEP Call Center at 1-800-377-4634  

Q. What if I have questions about street trees? Is there someone I can e-mail?

If you have questions pertaining to publicly owned trees, please email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  

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Make Our Mission a Part of Your Legacy

Did you know you can keep supporting Fort Wayne parks for generations to come? Legacy giving techniques are called “planned gifts,” because with thoughtful planning, you create win-win solutions for you and your loved ones, and our parks and programs.

A well-planned gift communicates your legacy. It tells a story of what you hold as most important and valuable in your life and community. Leaving a gift to Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation through your will or trust is an easy and impactful way to keep our parks beautiful and to improve the lives of residents and visitors of Fort Wayne for years to come.

Contact your financial and/or legal advisor to discuss including Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation in your legacy giving plan, and if you have questions about the various giving opportunities within our parks and programs, you can contact Rob Hines, Manager of Development, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 260-427-6028.

 

 

 

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Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation Department  705 E. State Blvd.   Fort Wayne, IN 46805  (260) 427-6000 • Office hours: Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm  parkswebmaster@cityoffortwayne.org