Program vs. Reactive Service
We strive to provide ‘programmed’ or planned tree maintenance in neighborhoods or regions whenever possible. In this mode all the trees in an area are pruned on a regular cycle. In the ‘reactive mode’, treework is often generated by a resident request for trees at a single address. Once the treework at that request is completed it is often followed by requests from adjacent neighbors. In the ‘reactive mode’ production is lost to travel, mobilization and setup of the crew and equipment.

Utility Pruning
Central Maine Power Company conducts programmed utility line clearance to its system on a regular pruning cycle throughout the Portland District. Priority is given to distribution circuits and primary lines that provide electrical service to streets and neighborhoods. Utility pruning is contracted by the utility to commercial utility arborist line clearance contractors.

Forestry Division Work Plan:

SPRING
Park treework, Street tree pruning, Tree planting begins in May, Co-Op Tree Planting in June.

SUMMER
Landscape projects, resident requested treework.

FALL
Stump removal, tree removal, holiday decorations.

WINTER
Area-wide pruning, tree removal, Small-Tree Maintenance Program, Park Pruning.

Problem Requests
Trees add many benefits to our city… however we often receive requests concerning tree problems. These problems are not always the fault of the tree, but associated with the tree growing near sidewalks, utilities, and buildings.

Tree root / sewer lateral problems exists when old clay-tile sewer laterals fail and advantageous tree roots clog the drain. Requests are often made to remove the closest tree to the problem… the solution ranges from auguring the drain to installing a new PVC or plastic sewer lateral, this often can be sleeved through the existing pipe. We recommend that residents with this problem check with the Public Works Wastewater Division and consult a plumber. Note: Trees are not removed to alleviate sewer drain problems.

Sidewalk / tree root problems occur when surface tree roots contact sidewalk causing lifting or cracking. The majority of these problems exist in areas where large trees occupy small grow spaces and in areas where there is clay or compacted soils. We recommend residents to contact the Public Works Customer Service number at 874-8461 to generate a work order and inspection of the sidewalk. The Public Works District Crews will review the conditions and review the solutions with the Forestry Division to provide a safe walkway.

Insect & Disease Problems
Aphids and 'Sooty Mold' problems develop in certain species including Lindens and Honeylocusts. Generally, aphid problems occur in June and early July and cause only minor damage to the tree. The aphid severity varies from year to year depending on a variety of conditions – the city does not provide chemical control. Permission may be been granted to residents to contract with a commercial arborist company to provide control with dormant oil and soap. This control has offered some relief to 'Sooty Mold' / aphid problems in Lindens where surfaces below are sometimes coated with a sticky film. Damage to Honeylocust is generally aesthetics and not the long term health of the tree. Effected trees usually recover by late July to mid-August.

Browntail Moth, recent infestations of Browntail Moth on Portland’s Casco Bay island communities has decreased to low levels in 2003. Spring 2003 surveys found moderate levels on Little Diamond Island. Isolated pockets of Browntail Moth webs also exist on Peaks, Great Diamond, Cushing and Cliff Islands. Browntail Moth infestation reports should be forwarded to the City Arborist. Eastern Tent Catapilar and Fall Web Worm are two nusience pests that generally effect ornamental trees, clipping and removing the webs is the best control.

Hemlock Wooly Adelgid is a serious threat to hemlock in Maine, the pest has not been found in the Portland area, but has been discovered on landscape stock brought into Maine, see Maine Forest Service Insect & Disease site for more information.