(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Tree Board will be re-established.

Local arborist Nick Haedt proposed to the Hiawatha City Commission last week that the board be re-established.

Haedt said  it’s important to monitor the health of the city’s tree population, especially in Hiawatha where 67 percent of the population involves a single species like the Sugar Maple.

He told the Commission if the city moves forward without a tree board they could back themselves into a corner should a destructive pest move through town.    

City Administrator Mike Nichols says city ordinance calls for the board to consist of five members, and the Commission agreed to start accepting names of residents that would be interested in serving on the Tree Board.  Those interested are encouraged to contact City Hall.