Matthew Fredmonsky
December 30, 2008
A new, $28,000 wood chipper purchased by Franklin Township will aid residents in clearing brush from their properties in 2009.
The 2008-model chipper, which can grind up to 12-inch diameter branches and trunks, was purchased early in December through a state bidding process in which the township paid the lowest price it received.
Rick Hunsicker, the township's roads superintendent, said proper care and maintenance could keep the new chipper in service for 15 years.
A preview of the township's 2009 chipping program kicks off Jan. 12, when crews will make a sweep of the entire township to pick up discarded Christmas trees. The actual brush program begins the first week of April, weather permitting, and will continue the first week of each month through November.
Hunsicker said residents should properly stack brush with the cut ends facing the road edge. No finished lumber, leaves, garden trimmings or other mixed materials will be collected during the brush program.
Hunsicker said businesses are not included in the pick-ups.
"The whole purpose of the chipping program is for residents to do some light trimming around their property," he said. "It's not meant for lot clearing."