Surprise recognition sprouts for longtime tree warden

SALISBURY — The Board of Selectmen honored longtime tree warden George Kiefer at the Fourth of July picnic at the Town Grove.

 First Selectman Curtis Rand said Kiefer, in his long career as a forester, had planted one-and-a-half million seedlings, for an average of 60,000 a year, with a one-year high of 250,000.

“Look up at this canopy,” Rand said, gesturing to the tall oaks at the Grove, “and imagine this grove without them.”

He said Kiefer’s work ethic was to do just a bit more. “When you’re done with a job, just plant one more bag of seedlings, or cut another cord of wood.”

He said Kiefer’s influence helped make the Grove trees healthier by teaching people not to rake up leaves around the trees and to stay away from the roped-off areas. He noted Kiefer’s ability to document the history of the 300-plus-year old oaks by examining the rings when one does finally die and his practice of making sure the old-growth wood is used for an appropriate purpose — such as for restoring old ships in Mystic, or for the long tabletops in the Academy Building in town.

For his part, a surprised Kiefer said he was “flabbergasted.”

The resolution, which was formally adopted by the selectmen at the next day’s meeting, reads:

“The trees at this Town Grove are dedicated to George C. Kiefer, Salisbury Tree Warden, who has cared for our town’s trees and forests for over 50 years. We are grateful for his efforts to protect this historic grove of trees and to ensure that they will flourish for the education and enjoyment of future generations.”

Dave Bayersdorfer was the master of ceremonies for the ceremonies on Saturday, and he spoke warmly of the late Carl Williams, whom he described as “a true public servant and a wonderful friend to all.”  Williams hosted the town’s Fourth of July ceremonies for many years.

Lou Bucceri, in Colonial-era costume, read the Declaration of Independence with great flair and considerable indignation, and the Salisbury Band, under the direction of Friso Hermans, played a program of marches and standards.

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