CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Tree Commission met on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in the city hall auditorium with all members present.
Chairman Barry Slatton welcomed Leanne West back as recorder and introduced two new commission members: Rob Werner and Trey Tidwell.
Arborist Shane Bivins provided an update, noting that several dead trees have recently been removed. He also reported that the department continues to respond to resident calls regarding tree-related questions and concerns.
Under old business, Slatton reported on the success of the 2025 Festival of Trees, held in December, which saw participation from all local schools. The commission discussed potential enhancements for this year’s event.
The commission also discussed the Arbor Day Poster Contest, coordinated with the Arbor Day Foundation and the Cullman County Extension Office.
Due to recent snow days impacting school schedules, the awards ceremony has been postponed. Posters will be judged on Feb. 24.
Under new business, Slatton announced that the annual Arbor Day Celebration and Tree City USA Dedication Ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, in front of city hall. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors.
Additional discussion included the upcoming Native Tree Sale to be held Saturday, Feb. 21, from 9 a.m.-noon, or until sold out, at the North Alabama Agriplex.
Hosted by the Cullman County Natural Resources Planning Committee, the sale will feature approximately 14 species of trees and shrubs native to north Alabama and well suited to the region’s growing conditions.
The Tree Commission will host a potting station during the event. The commission also discussed Earth Day activities in April and the possibility of donating and planting a tree at Cullman City Primary School. Representatives will coordinate with the school regarding that opportunity.
The next meeting of the Cullman Tree Commission will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. at city hall.
About the Tree Commission
The Cullman Tree Commission is a legally established advisory board that provides recommendations to the mayor and city council on matters related to the care, preservation and expansion of Cullman’s urban forest.
The commission meets on the third Tuesday of every even-numbered month unless otherwise posted. Members of the commission are Barry Slatton (chairman), Jan Barnett, B.J. Morgan, Jason Fowler, Pat Sharpton, Rob Werner and Trey Tidwell.
The Tree Commission Recorder is Leanne West. Additional information is available at https://cullmanal.gov/depts/trees.
