ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — State forestry officials are urging North Carolinians to cut down Bradford pear trees, citing the species’ invasive spread, weak branching and negative impact on wildlife.
The non-native trees, a variety of Callery pear, can outcompete native species and form dense, thorny thickets that are difficult to control, according to forestry officials. Their blooms are also notorious for a foul odor, while the fruit provides little nutrition for birds, creating what experts describe as “food deserts” for local wildlife.
To encourage removal, NC State Extension is hosting three Bradford Pear Bounty events this fall. Residents who remove a Bradford pear can receive up to five free native tree replacements, one for each tree cut down.
Events are scheduled for Oct. 4 in Asheville, Oct. 11 in Fayetteville and Oct. 18 in Goldsboro. Pre-registration is required at treebountync.com.