Cullman’s trees were able to survive the March 19 hailstorm without too much damage, but they may still be at risk during the summer.

During Tuesday’s meeting of the Cullman Tree Commission, City Arborist Darrell Johns gave an update on the recovery of the city’s trees after the hailstorm.

At the commission’s last meeting, Johns reported that most of Cullman’s trees were able to withstand the hail and wind and suffer minimal damage, but there is now a risk of pine beetles 

He said he is mostly concerned with the trees in the Carroll Acres area, because they took the biggest beating in the storm. 

“I’m very concerned that pine beetles will get started in there, because they’re very weak,” he said.

Johns said once pine beetles get into an area, there really aren’t any solutions to get them out. 

“There’s nothing really that you can do,” he said. “If the pine beetles don’t get them, they’ll come out fine.”

In other business, the Tree Commission has two vacancies and is looking for community members to apply for the positions.

Commission Chairman Everett Wier said the two spots have been open for several months and applicants are needed. 

The main duties for a member of the Tree Commission are attending the commission’s meeting every other month and helping out with the city’s annual tree sale and Arbor Day poster contest, he said.

The only requirement for the board is that the applicant has to live in the Cullman city limits, and anyone with an interest in trees and the beautification of the city is encouraged to apply. Prospective members can contact the Cullman Mayor’s Office at 256-775-7102 for more information.

The Cullman Tree Commission meets at 10 a.m. on the third Tuesday of every even-numbered month in the Cullman City Hall Auditorium. Its next meeting is Aug. 21.