LOOK NO FURTHER - If you’re wondering why over the past months, there have been piles of tree brances, look no further than Bernie Anderson (left) and Matt Harrington (right). ( Star Eagle photos by Eli Lutgens)
Bernie Anderson and Matt Harrington talk tree maintenance
By ELI LUTGENS
Editor
New Richland residents might have recently noticed neat piles of tree branches around town. The New Richland Commercial Club is responsible. More specifically, Bernie Anderson and Matt Harrington are responsible.
Roughly 25 years ago, Anderson, and others began planting trees along main street and throughout the city.
“Any of these smaller trees you see along the edge of the streets, (referring to the crabapple trees pictured) were planted by us,” remarked Harrington. “Bernie began before I did. I was a kid when he started.”
"We've been doing this for over 20 years," remarked Anderson. "I think we started in ‘95 and we had crews of four or five. We planted over 400 trees."
The variety of trees across New Richland streets is vast. According to Anderson, the varieties of trees include ash, oak, elm, crabapple, Japanese lilac, locust, and maple.
With all those trees comes maintenance, and Anderson and Harrington are here to heed the call to service. The two of them have been trimming the trees annually for years. Some years require more service than others, this fall in particular.
Trimming trees isn’t just about keeping up the appearance around town. There are practical reasons as well.
According to Anderson, "Clearing the tree branches helps with snow removal, especially with highway 30. It helps keep the area clear for snowplows.”
As the two of them trim the branches, they make piles for the city to collect. And that’s all the city is responsible for, according to Anderson.
“The city hasn’t had to spend a dollar,” he said. “The commercial club and the State Bank of New Richland donated the funds for the trees. We donate our time and provide the maintenance.”
Residents may recall the numerous charity Bingo events sponsored by the commercial club. If you were curious where the proceeds went, look no further than the piles of tree branches scattered throughout the city.