LAW/FIRE
NATURAL RESOURCES
If your neighbor’s tree is hanging onto your property, Minnesota Law does allow you to fix or “abate” the nuisance. There are limits and guidelines to follow when exercising this right: » You can trim branches that are encroaching on your property, but only up to the boundary line. All costs associated with trimming will be taken on by you. This is called the right to “self-help.” » Be cognizant of the scope and timing of the work. Timing is important because certain trees are susceptible to diseases. For example, pruning an oak between April and September could result in an oak tree getting infected with oak wilt, which is a disease that can quickly kill it. Scope is important because trimming too much of the canopy can impact trees' ability to photosynthesize. If you’re not sure, consult an arborist before doing your work. » You must stay on your property while doing work. » Best practice is to have a chat with your neighbor before doing any work. NEIGHBORING BRANCHES — WHAT CAN YOU DO?
THE GNOMADIC GNOME
April 22-June 21 | Various Parks around Chanhassen Decode secret messages and solve puzzles at 15 clue signs scattered throughout Chanhassen’s parks. The event starts on Earth Day, and ends on the summer solstice.
Visit The Garden by the Woods Garden Center on Earth Day to pick up your gnome and codebook and start your investigation of Chanhassen parks. Visit the city’s websites for more information ChanhassenMN.gov/GnomadicGnome
Always pick up after your pets, whether on a walk or in your own backyard. Your dog’s poop can directly contribute to poor water quality and human health issues. In fact, pet waste is one of the leading PICK UP AFTER YOUR PETS
causes of pollution in urban watersheds. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies dog poop as a pollutant. As carnivores, dogs have diets rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. Nitrogen is commonly used as a fertilizer for our plants, but the concentration of nitrogen in dog poop is so great that it can damage plant roots and stunt their growth. If dog poop gets into water systems, the high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus can also cause algae blooms, which suffocate other aquatic life and make our lakes, streams, and ponds unhealthy and unenjoyable. Pet waste is a haven for dangerous pathogens and parasites, including E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Giardia, roundworms, and tapeworms. Dog poop may also contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can spread to humans and are much more difficult to treat. Pet waste left behind can make its way into storm drains during rain. This water does not go to wastewater treatment facilities for decontamination. Anything that gets into stormwater runoff has a direct path to our waterways, including all those excessive nutrients and nasty pathogens. And remember, when you have your pup out in public, keep them leashed and pick up after it. Be a good neighbor and be responsible for your pup. To read the city code about animals in public spaces, visit municipal code article 14-4, section 14-65 (Animals). This information has been provided by Carver County Water Management Organization.
TREE REBATES
Will you be adding a tree to your yard this season? You may qualify for a rebate! Rebates of $75 are available for tree planting in Chanhassen. Visit the city’s websites for more information ChanhassenMN.gov/TreeRebate
YARD WASTE DROP-OFF
Residents may drop off yard waste on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., April 1 - November 15, excluding holidays. Summer hours will be in effect after Memorial Day, and Public Works will close at noon on Fridays. Payment can be made at Public Works during business hours by cash, check, or card. Residents must check in at the Public Works office and show proof of residency. Fees are $1/bag, $8/cubic yard. Did you know? Improperly disposed yard waste can harm our local water resources by contributing to phosphorous and nitrogen loading. For more information, visit the website ChanhassenMN.gov/YardWaste
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CITY OF CHANHASSEN | SUMMER 2024
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