Bishop Kagan | Diocese of Bismarck
Bishop Kagan | Diocese of Bismarck
Following a weekend of severe storms that damaged numerous trees, the City of Bismarck's Forestry Division is reminding residents about the requirement for a commercial arborist license to perform tree work in Bismarck. This includes both commercial and residential pruning and removal.
According to city ordinance 13-02-05, "It is unlawful for any person to do commercial tree pruning or removal within the City without a commercial license to do so, except if such a person is part of a crew or group working under the direct and immediate supervision of the holder of a commercial license."
Residents can find a list of licensed community arborists online, which also includes a printable version. Bismarck City Forester Christy Ames-Davis stated, "Bismarck-licensed arborists are either certified through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or have taken and passed our arborist test to demonstrate competency in the field of arboriculture." Additionally, all licensed arborists must maintain insurance coverage.
Forestry crews, alongside Streets staff, have begun clearing downed trees from Friday evening's storm on June 20. Residents are encouraged to place storm-damaged trees and branches on boulevards for collection. Branches should be cut into manageable lengths for one person. They will not be collected from alleyways but will be picked up on regular garbage days by other equipment types. It is advised to keep garbage and recycling containers at least four feet away from set-out trees and branches. Vehicles should be parked at least ten feet away from debris piles to prevent damage during collection. Placing tree debris in streets should be avoided as it can block water flow to storm drains, potentially causing street flooding during heavy rains.
More information about Bismarck’s Forestry operations can be found online.
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