A workshop this week in Grand Rapids will provide information on ways to reuse wood that's removed from city trees during routine maintenance.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says the seminar would be especially helpful for arborists, municipal tree care workers and forestry professionals.
It's scheduled for Thursday at 9 a.m. at Blandford School. The cost is $35.
City trees provide numerous benefits. They shade buildings, provide wildlife habitat, clean the air and filter water. But some must be removed because of insect or storm damage.
DNR urban forestry manager Kevin Sayers says many such trees end up in landfills or as mulch. But some could produce high-quality lumber for furniture, paneling or "green" building materials. Finding new uses for the wood can reduce disposal costs.
