A number of trees in the median of Government Way near Forest Cemetery were pruned on Thursday, helping to enhance branch structure, promote healthy growth and improve their overall appearance.

Arborists with Specialty Tree Service donated their time to prune the trees, working alongside a city parks and recreation crew. The tree service used their equipment and bucket truck for the pruning, while the city assisted with ground work and clearing debris.

Specialty Tree Service owner Ken Roberge has a special interest in the trees along Government Way since he has donated many of them over the years and lives in close proximity.

“I want to give back and support our community,” Roberge said. In the future, he hopes to partner with other arborists in a networking effort to support the community’s urban forestry.

Pruning trees is important to establish good structure and maintain structural integrity. When hiring a tree service to prune trees, it is important to hire a company that has an ISA Certified Arborist on staff. Improper pruning can create lasting damage, shorten the tree’s life and can also create hazards.

For information on tree care or public street trees contact the Urban Forestry Division of the parks and recreation department 769-2266 or visit www.cdaid.org/parks.

Chuck VanGuilder with Specialty Tree Service trims limbs Thursday morning on Government Way.