Oak Park Forestry Techs Join Washington Tornado Relief Effort

Two Oak Park forestry technicians will join the cleanup efforts in Washington, IL, where a deadly tornado touched down Sunday afternoon.

The two employees, Ron Schwab and Dan Bartl, were scheduled to take log loader truck by Wednesday to help remove trees and other debris in the devastated town, according to a news release from the Village of Oak Park. 

Oak Park's Public Works Department responded to a request for assistance made through a state-wide mutual aid network. The two employees will work the overnight shift, starting around 6 p.m. each day for the next five days. Meals and lodging for Schwab and Bartl will be provided, as well as fuel for their vehicle.

Public Works Director John Wielebnicki said in a statement, “I am proud of Ron and Dan for stepping up so quickly to represent the Village in the cleanup efforts... They’ll be working hard over the next five days, and we hope their presence makes a real impact on Washington’s recovery.”

For those who would like to donate or volunteer to help in Washington, a Facebook page dedicated to the relief efforts in Washington includes information on charitable organizations operating in the area.

Information courtesy of a news release from the Village of Oak Park.