Point Gratiot in Dunkirk is a testament to the damage done by the emerald ash borer. Within the last two years, numerous trees have been cut down and removed from the picturesque city park.

Thankfully, an effort is already underway to bring some shade back to the location. Last month, Common Council approved a Tree for Thee effort that is being spear-headed by resident Mary Louise McGraw.

In a meeting this month, McGraw told of the effort’s success. “This is coming along amazing,” she said. “I am getting now three and four emails a day. One lady from Florida wanted five trees. Somebody from Illinois — these are all people who used to live here, and they’re all DHS Class of whatever, they’re beer drinking buddies somewhere along the way.

“Anyway, the enthusiasm is picking up, and I have this feeling since our deadline is next Friday, March 15, this is gonna be like tax time.”

McGraw expects to be overwhelmed with requests today and Thursday. She invited anyone with questions about the program to email atreeforthee@yahoo.com.

Applications are available at the Dunkirk library, the Dunkirk City Clerk’s office, and both the Dunkirk and Fredonia branches of Lake Shore Savings bank. McGraw said she also has applications.