Work to remove ash trees at the IBM Glen in the town of Union is taking longer than anticipated.

The emerald ash borer has been infesting trees in the region. When a tree has been infested, it decays rapidly and poses a threat when the trunk and branches fall to the ground.

Christopher Audette of the Waterman Conservation Education Center, which owns the nature preserve, said trees near paved trails must be removed to protect public safety.

The Waterman Conservation Education Center acquired the IBM Glen in March 2005. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
The Waterman Conservation Education Center acquired the IBM Glen in March 2005. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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The removal project had been expected to be wrapped up by the end of March. But Audette said the job now is only about two-thirds complete.

Audette said bad weather has affected the work at the Glen. He said the trees are being cut down by Cook's Tree Service of Vestal. He said the storm damage from earlier this week will mean the company's crews will be busy dealing with high-priority jobs.

Tree removal operations are conducted on weekdays. IBM Glen trails are closed when the work is in progress.

Signs have been posted to inform Glen visitors about the work that's being done at the site off Robinson Hill Road.

Signs alert IBM Glen visitors to the ongoing tree removal project. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
Signs at the IBM Glen explain the ongoing tree removal project. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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