Keene Turns Invasive Pest Crisis Into Forest Revival Plan

When red pine scale insects threatened to kill trees throughout Keene's Dinsmoor Woods, city officials saw a chance to build something better than what was there before.

Starting April 27, crews will harvest 9.4 acres of red pine trees along Maple Avenue before the invasive pest can destroy them completely. The red pine scale, first spotted locally in Wheelock Park last year, feeds on tree sap until the trees die.

Parks and Recreation Director Carrah Fisk Hennessey says the timing is crucial. By removing the trees while they're still alive, the city can sell the timber for utility poles, lumber, and biomass fuel, generating revenue that will cover most of the project's costs.

That means taxpayers won't foot the bill for protecting their community forest. It also prevents the safety hazards that would come from dead trees eventually falling near roads and homes.

The work will take five to nine days and will dramatically change the look of Maple Avenue, a scenic corridor treasured by residents. Hennessey acknowledges the visual impact will be tough in the short term, but the long-term vision is worth it.

The Ripple Effect

This project is about more than just removing sick trees. It's about growing back something better.

After the harvest, the city will monitor natural regrowth through summer 2026, then begin strategic replanting between fall 2026 and spring 2027. Native hardwoods like oak and maple will replace the single-species pine stand, creating a diverse ecosystem that's more resilient to future threats.

The land is protected by conservation easements, so there's zero risk of development. City officials have added a forest health and sustainability project to their Capital Improvement Program, securing ongoing funding for replanting and invasive species removal starting July 1.

Keene is also pursuing grants to expand these efforts even further. Residents can join a Walk-and-Talk tour on Saturday, April 11 at 3 p.m. at Jonathan Daniels School parking lot to learn more from forestry experts and ask questions.

The city has coordinated with schools, emergency services, and contractors to minimize disruption during the harvest, including detour routes and emergency vehicle access during temporary road closures.

What could have been an expensive crisis is becoming a chance to restore forest health for generations to come.