Algonquin branching out its tree diversity

Things are getting a little greener in Algonquin these days -- as 230 new trees will be planted in the village's parks, neighborhoods and schools over the next month.

"We've chosen some unique species -- we're really trying to enhance our tree diversity," Director of Public Works Robert Mitchard said Thursday.

Varieties include northern catalpas, yellow buckeyes, Kentucky coffee trees, triumph elms, ginkgos and dawn redwoods.

In areas near power lines, the village will plant shorter varieties, like golden glory dogwoods and amur maackias.

"Your run of the mill village might put in maples, oaks and elms. Ours isn't your typical nursery stock," Mitchard said.

Cost of the project is approximately $25,000, according to Bud Schuetz, of the village's Parks and Forestry Division.

"We do all the work in house," Schuetz said. A three-man crew plants a minimum of 10 trees each day. "A record we're trying to beat is 19 (trees)."

Mitchard detailed efforts to find extra planting locations in the community.

"For example, in a number of our parks, we've identified a number of spots where we could fit an extra tree or two in," he said.

Additionally, the village has a 50/50 program that shares the cost of planting additional trees in neighborhood parkways with homeowners.

"If they want an extra tree, we'll pay half of the cost," he said.

Price range varies by type of tree, but on average, would cost residents about $100 per tree. "Dead, dying or storm damaged trees are replaced for free."

Algonquin's tree planting program is one of a number of green-minded efforts initiated by the city, including wetland conservation, free mulch dispersion the use of biofuels for public works vehicles.