Stealth Bomber or UFO?
Stink Bugs are Back
The common invasive brown marmorated stink bug has a shield-shaped body, about ½–¾ inch long and may vary in color from brown to green or a mix of both. Although they fly, they are clumsy and don’t go any distance.
When on the defense, stink bugs release a pungent odor to deter predators (and humans). Their diet is vegetarian. Stink bugs are most present in the fall when they seek shelter indoors to overwinter.
Stinkbugs do more than smell awful. They cling to your clothing for a free ride into the house, hide behind curtains and crawl across the ceiling. They can damage crops like apples, peaches, tomatoes, soybeans, and corn by piercing it with needle-like mouth parts. They can invade homes in large numbers and produce a foul smell if crushed or handled roughly.
The good news? Stink bugs do not bite or sting. They simply look terrible and smell worse.
– Source: University of Minnesota
Fact Checking the “Experts”
At the Sept. 8 Shorewood Council meeting, a statement was made that was not accurate.
When talking about a salary for a full-time city engineer position, council member Dustin Maddy said he loses sleep at night worrying about valued staff members moving on to bigger cities. (Click to view)
“We have had a lot of staff in the past go to bigger cities as part of their “in-career” development.” –council member Maddy
A cursory look at the employees who have left city in the last 7-8 years tell a different story. (does not include public works or seasonal employment)
(Years of employment are approximate. Click to open)
In summary, words matter when coming from a person in a position of authority.
Source: Verified by past employees
⚡ Don’t be Shocked:
Xcel‘s Tree Trimming Policy Has Changed
Xcel Energy has changed its tree-trimming policy to reduce fire risk while, reducing liability, improving safety and service reliability. The result may be noticeable changes to yards across Minnesota.
- Increased Clearance Around Power Lines: Xcel now requires at least 10 feet of clearance between trees or branches and overhead power lines—up from the previous 6 feet. The wider buffer allows trees to remain a safe distance until the next scheduled trimming cycle, which typically occurs every 4 to 7 years.
- More Aggressive Trimming—and Possible Removal: Stricter clearances mean crews may prune more heavily than in the past. Sometimes trees may be removed if their growth pattern or proximity to the lines makes safe trimming impossible. Trees that grow entirely on private property can be trimmed or removed if their branches threaten electric lines.
- Notification and Cleanup: Xcel tries to notify property owners before work begins by mail, door, or email. Some homeowners have reported limited warning before crews arrived. Cleanup of branches varies. In some cases, Xcel will arrange for removal or in others, homeowners may need to manage disposal themselves.
Xcel’s updated policy highlights the growing emphasis on wildfire prevention, grid safety and service reliability. But, it also means homeowners may see more dramatic changes to their trees and landscapes than in years past. Property owners concerned about a specific tree, can contact Xcel’s vegetation management team to discuss options.
