The Town of Marion Trees and Parks Committee is pleased to announce the release of an updated booklet, “A Homeowner Guide to Marion’s Street Trees,” which will be available at the Town of Marion Fourth of July parade, the Elizabeth Taber Library, the Town House, the Council on Aging, and later shared with local realtors for distribution to new and prospective homeowners. The guide offers practical information about how the Town cares for public trees and what property owners should know about living with and around them.
In Massachusetts, a street tree – legally known as a public shade tree – is typically any tree growing within the public way, usually within about ten feet of the edge of the paved road, and these trees fall under the care and authority of the Town rather than the adjacent landowner. These trees frame Marion’s streets, parks, and public spaces, providing shade, beauty, cleaner air, wildlife habitat, and a healthier environment for residents and visitors alike.
The new booklet explains who is responsible for planting, caring for, and, when necessary, removing street trees, including the role of the Tree Warden, Department of Public Works, and Trees and Parks Committee. It also outlines what homeowners may and may not do around street trees – such as trimming, construction near roots, or planting on Town land – helping residents avoid unintentional damage or violations of state public shade tree laws.
Homeowners will also find information about many of the tree species that have been planted throughout Marion’s streets, parks, cemeteries, and public buildings, reflecting a long local tradition of improving and beautifying the village through shade and ornamental trees. The Committee hopes the guide will encourage residents to recognize, protect, and, where appropriate, request new street trees, ensuring that Marion’s leafy character will continue to benefit future generations.
Copies of “A Homeowner Guide to Marion’s Street Trees” will be available along the Fourth of July parade route and afterward through the Trees and Parks Committee and participating realtors. Thank you for helping to care for Marion’s trees.”