Tree Committee - 05/12/2026

The Town of Bridgewater Tree Committee held a meeting on May 12, 2026, focusing primarily on tree planting initiatives and maintenance projects. A key procurement-related decision was the approval of a motion to allocate funds for purchasing 200 tree seedlings to be distributed as an educational tool to local schools in the fall, with potential follow-up projects in the spring. The committee discussed sourcing the seedlings, developing instructional materials, and involving students in tree planting to promote community engagement. Additionally, the committee addressed the need for pruning and maintenance of existing trees along Broad Street, noting budget constraints and the necessity of obtaining quotes from qualified arborists, including a recommended local expert, Kevin Ferguson. They also considered potential funding sources, including a grant from the state representative, and discussed the process for soliciting bids and coordinating with the highway department. The committee agreed to pursue obtaining cost estimates and further explore funding options. Lastly, the committee approved a motion to organize a meeting focused on developing a website to promote tree-related information and increase public engagement, with plans to potentially expand committee membership and improve outreach efforts. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were finalized during this meeting, but several action items were established to advance procurement and project planning.