City offers drop-off for damaged trees as storms continue

Carson City Public Works has expanded a drop-off location for damaged trees and downed limbs as more winter storms loom.

“In an effort to help Carson City residents deal with the impact of recent and forthcoming winter weather to their property, tree branches and limbs that have fallen as a result of these storms may be dropped off at the Christmas tree recycling pile located south of the Nevada Humane Society building on Airport Road between Fifth Street and Butti Way,” said a press release. “Limbs cannot be bigger than four inches in diameter. This service is offered for damaged trees and limbs from residential properties only.”

The city will accept trees and limbs through Jan. 18.

According to the National Weather Service, more storms are expected this weekend through Wednesday, including a strong “atmospheric river” projected to arrive on Monday.

“With high snow levels and heavy rainfall projected and underlying soils/snowpacks primed for more efficient run-off, the potential for urban, small stream and mainstem river flooding could become a very real concern,” said the NWS.

Emergency personnel are encouraging residents to be prepared with extra supplies, like batteries, flashlights, nonperishable food and water.

“Every call we get we take seriously,” Public Works Director Darren Schulz told the Board of Supervisors Thursday.

Schulz and Carson City Fire Chief Sean Slamon gave a brief update on recent storms during public comment. Schulz said soft rains can help reduce ice and snow leftover from the New Year’s storm, but too much rain can cause flooding.  

“It definitely takes some time to get into the deeper neighborhoods,” he said of clearing streets.

Slamon reported a sharp spike in service calls during the New Year’s event. The fire department set up warming centers for those who lost power, but no one attended, Slamon said. He said the city is preparing for the next round of storms.

“This is going to be a long haul for us,” he said.

Supervisor Stacey Giomi told the two officials a disaster declaration could be made in the future if necessary. Mayor Lori Bagwell also pointed out the Nevada National Guard is prepared to help.