Invasive Tree Removal

INVASIVE TREE REMOVAL UPDATE AND INCENTIVES

June 5, 2017

Dear Woodside Hills Neighbor,

On behalf of the WHHA board, I would like to update you on some progress your board is making to preserve the beauty and safety of Woodside Hills, as well as some things you can do to contribute to this effort.

First, many of you may have noticed the clearing of invasive trees and brush adjacent to the Fernside entrance to Woodside Hills. Not only will this lower the fire hazard in this area, but it will also allow the native Oak and Liquid Amber trees in this area to thrive in a less crowded environment. This work was coordinated by Board Member Aydan Kutay to get the Town of Woodside to fund the work. Special thanks to Suzie Larwood, with the help of Elizabeth Fergason and Ginny Piazza (all Master Gardeners who live in Woodside Hills) to work with the tree service to identify what trees needed pruning and removal.

Second, all Woodside Hills residents should consider removing invasive trees from our properties. Some of these trees are fire hazards; others are so pervasive that they crowd out native species and block the beautiful views for which Woodside Hills is known. We hope that the incentives below will help us all do the right thing regarding tree removal.

Two Incentives to remove Invasive Trees on your property:

	1. The Town of Woodside “Defensible Space Matching Funds Program"
	This program is designed to help fund the creation of defensible space around your property as it relates to the threat of wildfire. This includes clearing brush as well as removal of trees as determined by the Woodside Fire District. The Town of Woodside will reimburse you 50% of the cost of creating Defensible Space up to $2,000. More information about how to apply for this program can be found here https://www.woodsidetown.org/community/defensible-space-matching-fund-program. For permit applications and details for tree removal please visit https://www.woodsidetown.org/planning/tree-destruction-permit-application. Permit fees for removal of invasive trees (including Acacia, Eucalyptus and Monterey Pine) will be waived by the Town of Woodside.

	2. Discount Tree Removal offer from John Thompson Tree Expert, LLC
	John Thompson Tree Expert has been in business for over 50 years and has worked in many locations in Woodside Hills. They are licensed and insured and have offered the following incentives for Woodside Hills homeowners:
	•	$75 per man hour (17%-25% discount depending upon the type of work needed) for tree and brush trimming or removal.
	•	$75 per hour for Bucket Truck use for tall trees.
	•	Dump and disposal fees are extra.
	•	Additional discounts may be available if you pool work with your neighbors.
	•	You can contact John Thompson at 650-400-0289 for specific estimates for your property.

Please take advantage of these incentives not only to make our neighborhood safer from the threat of wildfire, but to also preserve and improve the wonderful views we have in Woodside Hills for you and your neighbors. Sincerely, Michael Bergeron WHHA Board President You can download a PDF version of this page by clicking here.