KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene Parks and Recreation Department is taking proactive measures to protect the city’s parks and forests from the invasive red pine scale, which has already impacted nearby areas. Keene Parks and Recreation Director Carrah Fisk-Hennessy presented the issue to the Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure Committee on Wednesday, emphasizing the urgency of an action plan.

Fisk-Hennessey spoke to Dan Mitchell on his show this morning about the red pine trees in Keene, including those in Wheelock Park and Dinsmore Woods, which are especially vulnerable. These trees were planted after the Hurricane of 1938 and are now approaching the end of their natural lifespan, around 85 years. Fisk-Hennessy highlighted the risk posed by Red Pine Scale, an insect that can kill trees within one to three years of infestation. She noted that the pest has already been detected in the Yale Forest in Swanzey, signaling an imminent threat to Keene’s trees.

To address the issue, Fisk-Hennessy recommended developing a comprehensive plan involving community education, the selective harvesting of red pines, and a sustainable reforestation strategy. She explained that preemptive action is crucial, given the age of the trees and the potential for the infestation to spread.

A $35,000 forestry assessment is being proposed to guide the city’s response. The plan will involve collaboration with experts from the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands and the UNH Cooperative Extension. Educational workshops for the community are also scheduled for January and March to inform residents about the threat and the city’s plans for reforestation.

The harvested red pine timber could provide some economic relief, as it has market value for uses such as log cabins and telephone poles.

Listen to the full interview: