Shade Tree Commission

Mission Statement

The mission of the Delanco Shade Tree Commission, founded on October 12, 1971 is as follows:

• Serve as volunteer advocates for the incorporation of trees and green spaces in the Township.
• To maintain and preserve the trees on township property.
• To facilitate the planting of new trees in public venues.
• To educate the public with regard to the care and benefits of trees in their environment.
• To remain informed, accredited, and active in the future planning of the Community Forest.

The Shade Tree Commission meets the fourth Wednesday of every month, with the exception of November and December, at Town Hall, 770 Coopertown Road. 

Shade Tree Action Request Forms

If you would like to request any action from the Shade Tree Commission (trimming and/or removal) you may either click the links to submit an online Action Request Form or print a hard copy of the Action Request Form and drop off or mail it to the Township Building, 770 Coopertown Road or email it to the Shade Tree Commission at dstc@delancotownship.com. *SHADE TREE ACTION REQUEST FORMS NEED TO BE SUBMITTED BY THE 15TH OF THE MONTH IN ORDER TO BE REVIEWED AT THE SHADE TREE COMMISSION MEETING ON THE FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH. REQUESTS SUBMITTED AFTER THE 15TH WILL BE REVIEWED THE FOLLOWING MONTH.

Click the link to complete and submit the online Shade Tree Action Request Form

Click the link for a printable form: Shade Tree Action Request Form

PLEASE NOTE: RESIDENTS OF THE POINT WHICH INCLUDES CHARLES CIRCLE, OSMOND WAY AND WILSON WAY SHOULD CALL THEIR HOA MANAGEMENT COMPANY REGARDING ANY STREET TREE ISSUES. PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT THE SHADE TREE REQUEST FORM NOTED ABOVE.

 A Reminder to Water Your Trees

In this summer heat, trees need our help! It takes several years for young trees to become established, and ensuring they get enough water during this time is critical to their survival. New Jersey is currently dealing with a stretch of extreme hot and dry weather, so our trees are relying on us to make sure they get enough water.

Please make sure to check on your young trees and water them a minimum of two times per week during this dry spell - more if you notice the soil is getting dry quickly and the tree appears stressed. If you use watering bags for your trees, fill them up at least twice a week. In order to conserve water and prevent it from evaporating in the sun, try to water in early morning or evening, and water by leaving your hose on a trickle at the base of the tree for 20-30 minutes if you are able. Together we can help keep our trees healthy and happy!

Spotted Lanternfly

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture asks all residents to be on the lookout for Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive insect species which is known to feed on 70 different types of trees, fruit, vegetables and grains.

The exotic-looking bug is native to Asia. Adult insects are about 1 inch long, feature a black head, grayish black spotted forewings and reddish black spotted hind wings, according to Rutgers' New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. The first U.S. Spotted Lanternfly sighting was in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in 2014.

It's easy to inadvertently transport the bugs, which feast on a variety of produce. They're plant hoppers--and also can hitch a ride on your car. Because egg masses are laid on smooth surfaces and look like a patch of mud, it's very likely that they could go unnoticed on outdoor items, building materials and even bikes and scooters, according to NJ officials.

Click here for more information on what to do if you see Spotted Lanternfly in any of its life stages, including a color photo. Click here for a checklist for residents to review before moving outdoor items in or out of quarantined areas.

Sidewalk Program

Sidewalk Program Information

Sidewalk Packet

Click the links below for more information on each subject:

Proper Mulching of Trees

Emerald Ash Borer Facts 

Photo Gallery

The Shade Tree Commission planted 3 trees along Burlington Avenue at the Walnut Street School in celebration of Arbor Day 2008.

Arbor Day 2009--Delanco Shade Tree Commission received its first annual Tree City USA Award

Is Your Street Tree a Problem?

Trees planted in the easement can sometimes cause a sidewalk to buckle, or heave. Occasionally, roots from street trees grow in to leaking sewer lines.  Often the obvious answer seems to be removal of the tree.

While removal may seem obvious, it is not the only alternative. Street trees add to the charm of our town. They provide cooling in the summer, protection from the elements, and reduce water and air pollution. Street trees also add to the value of your home.

Please allow the Shade Tree Commission to suggest some alternatives....

The Shade Tree Commission often receives requests for removal of trees due to sewer blockages. Any removal request for this reason must be accompanied by documentation by a licensed plumber, insurer, or the Delanco Sewerage Authority.

Removal of the street tree often does not solve the problem of sewer blockages. After removal, the deep roots may remain active. The blockage may be coming from another tree, other than the street tree. The cause for the blockage may not be roots at all, but sand, silt, buildup in the line, or debris from another source. 

Tree roots seek water from pipes that are leaking. Old terracotta or "Orangeburg" pipe is structurally weak and offers little resistance to roots seeking nutrients.  Replacement with glued PVC or cast iron maybe the only sure fix.

Questions can be emailed to the Shade Tree Commission at dstc@delancotownship.com