Known for its stunning greenbelts and tree preservation efforts, Allen’s landscape is adorned with large deciduous shade trees with expansive canopies.  Don’t overlook the small deciduous trees though, because they often have ornamental value that goes beyond the shade offered by the tree canopy.

Providing valuable shade from the torrid summer heat, these trees can be vulnerable to pathogens and diseases.  Mike Sills, Regional Urban Forester with the Texas Forest Service, will address such issues such as invasive beetles and oak wilt at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Allen Public Library.  Sponsored by the Allen Public Library and Parks and Recreation Department, admission to the program is free, and it will be web-cast live on allentx.swagit.com

Mike graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1995 with a B.S. in Forestry and obtained his International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist certification and private pilot license in 1997.  During Covid, he received accreditation as a Certified Forester and Board-Certified Master Arborist from the Society of American Foresters and ISA, respectively. 

The library is located at 300 N. Allen Dr.  Call 214-509-4911 for additional information.