March 12, 2020
Contact: John Scott
Urban Forester
Parks and Recreation
(479) 444-3470
urbanforestry@fayetteville-ar.gov
The Invasive Plant Bounty is Back!
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark.— This spring, the City of Fayetteville’s Urban Forestry staff will have another Bradford Pear/Invasive species bounty, and have added Chinese privet to the popular bounty program. The City recognizes Bradford pear trees, bush honeysuckle, and Chinese privet as invasive species in our area. Invasive species spread quickly and choke out our native trees, shrubs and flowers. Native tree species are more beneficial to the environment and wildlife. To spread awareness and discourage the spread of these invasive plants, the City of Fayetteville has posted a “bounty” on Bradford pear trees, Chinese privet and bush honeysuckle. The City will give one native tree or native shrub to each person who cuts down a Bradford Pear or removes bush honeysuckle or Chinese privet on their property within city limits.
Please note that the City is unable to cut down your tree or shrubs for you. Property owners should cut their tree or shrub or hire a company. A video of proper honeysuckle identification and removal can be found at Invasive Bush Honeysuckle Removal. The same techniques for removing bush honeysuckle can be used to remove Chinese privet.
To qualify, residents are asked to take a picture of their cut-down Bradford Pear tree, Chinese privet, or bush honeysuckle in early spring. Then email the picture of the removed plant to urbanforestry@fayetteville-ar.gov. Include your name, address and phone number. The limit is one tree or shrub per household while supplies last. Plants will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis. Fifty native trees and 25 native shrubs will be available. Native shrub and tree species will be determined at a later date. Trees and shrubs will be made available without direct contact with staff due to COVID.
Pick-up dates and locations:
- City residents may pick up their reward trees and shrube April 5 -15 on weekdays from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Parks and Recreation Department Office located at 1455 S. Happy Hollow Road.
Urban Forestry staff stress “Right Tree, Right Place.” Trees can take many years to reach their mature height and spread. Homeowners need to consider all surroundings when choosing the location for their new tree. To avoid heavy pruning or removal, consider the tree's mature height and proximity to overhead power lines. Residents should always contact Arkansas One Call at 811 or 800-482-8998 before digging. Fayetteville citizens and businesses are encouraged to learn about invasive species when choosing plants; more information can be found at Invasive Plant Species in Fayetteville Arkansas.
QUESTIONS? Please call the Parks and Recreation Office at 479.444.3471.
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