Six seek tree bounties for invasive Australians

This town isn’t big enough for the 11 of them.

That’s the attitude six applicants to the Public Works Department have taken in asking the town to authorize reimbursement for removing Australian pines on their property.

It’s all part of a program started by the department last year that created an annual fund of $60,000 to rid the island of the invasive species, which, with its shallow root base and unusual height, is vulnerable to high winds brought by storms and hurricanes.

The applicants have proven to the town that the tree they wish to eliminate could impact island infrastructure if they toppled. This could include severing power lines, blocking roadways or unearthing pipes.

The town offered up to $750 for felling trees that have potential of adversely impacting infrastructure anywhere on the island. An applicant would receive up to $1,500 if a tree could impact Gulf of Mexico Drive.

None of the residents who have asked the town for reimbursement have trees that could impact GMD.

Cary Campagna said the “huge” Australian pine near his Spanish Main Yacht Club home is posing a threat to his home. The tree, which is actually on neighboring Cedars East property, has three trunks stretching from its base to well above nearby power lines.

Removing this tree could cost Campagna up to $5,800, he said.

“It’s a beautiful tree, but after the hurricane, I saw what happens to those things when they come out,” Campagna said. “You know, it’s not pretty.”

Any residents interested in getting reimbursed for removing an Australian pine may visit the town’s website to download and complete an application, which must be delivered to the Public Works Department for approval.