Daniel Island Pruning Patrol

There are so many reasons to love Daniel Island. The shops, restaurants, waterfront properties, schools… the list goes on. One of the reasons that tops my list is the sense of community on the Island. The Daniel Island residents are always coming together for causes that are near and dear to them.

Recently I joined my community and took part in the Daniel Island Pruning Patrol.  The Pruning Patrol is a group of volunteers who work to keep the trees along the island’s sidewalks and streets trimmed back and healthy. There are six teams on the island that gather for about two hours every four to six weeks to maintain the trees.

I quickly learned that this group is more than just your average 'tree trimmers'. Team leaders have taken part in classes on trimming and tree health led by Danny Burbage, head of Urban Forestry for the City of Charleston. Each tree limb is evaluated for health and safety to the tree before being trimmed. These teams of volunteers work hard and selflessly for the Daniel Island community. It maintains safety and health of the beautiful Charleston landscape on the island, keeps sidewalks and streets clear for walkers and cars alike, and also gives people a chance to come together in the great outdoors. 

What started this project? Community member, and Daniel Island Neighborhood Association President, Mac McBride approached Bob Sauer with the idea (a Daniel Island Garden Club member and Certified Landscape Designer) and a volunteer group quickly grew. Residents of Daniel Island take pride in their home, and want to play an active role in preserving the beauty of where they live. 

What a great experience, looking forward to my next pruning session!