Elite Crew Tree Service provides specialized tree maintenance for Drain, Oregon - a historic town of 1,172 residents incorporated in 1887. Named after town founder Charles J. Drain, who donated 60 acres of nearby land to the Oregon and California Railroad in 1871, this community has deep roots in Oregon's history. Located at an elevation of 289 feet where Oregon Routes 99 and 38 intersect in the Coast Range, Drain's unique geography and climate create specific challenges for tree health.

Drain's historical significance extends beyond its railroad origins. From 1883 to 1908, the town was home to the Drain Normal School (later renamed Central Oregon State Normal School), established by the Methodist Church before being taken over by the state in 1885. This educational heritage reflects the community's longstanding commitment to growth and development. In 1876, Drain became an important transportation hub when a coach road was established between Drain and Scottsburg, and the town served as the starting point for the Drain-Coos Bay stage line that connected to Gardiner and the mouth of the Umpqua River.



Our services are tailored to Drain's Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csb), which experiences temperature extremes ranging from 0°F (-17.8°C) recorded in 1962 to 109°F (42.8°C) in 2015. With minimal snowfall (averaging 1.7 inches annually) but significant seasonal rainfall, trees in this region require specialized care to thrive. December 1955 holds the record as Drain's wettest month with 21.93 inches of precipitation, demonstrating the potential for extreme weather conditions.

Understanding Drain's Tree Environment

Drain's position at a pass in the Coast Range creates varying microclimates throughout its compact 0.63 square mile area. This strategic location, reflected in the town motto "Gateway to the Pacific," means trees face unique stressors from coastal weather patterns. The convergence of Elk Creek and Pass Creek (both tributaries of the Umpqua River) within town boundaries creates riparian zones with distinct tree care needs.

The town's demographic history - growing from 193 residents in 1900 to 607 by 1920, then fluctuating through the decades to reach 1,172 today - has shaped its urban forest. Many mature trees in Drain have witnessed significant population changes, including the peak of 1,204 residents in 1970 and subsequent variations. These long-standing trees require specialized care that acknowledges their historical significance and contribution to community identity.

Comprehensive Services

We offer a complete range of tree care services for Drain's diverse community of 454 households:

• Tree Removal: Safe elimination of hazardous trees, particularly important in areas near Drain's historic structures like the Pass Creek covered bridge. This historic bridge, formerly a road bridge, was moved to a park behind the Drain Civic Center in 1987 and represents part of the town's heritage that requires protection from potential tree hazards.

• Pruning & Trimming: Strategic maintenance that accounts for Drain's population density of approximately 1,850 people per square mile. In such a condensed community, proper pruning prevents property damage while preserving tree health and aesthetics.

• Emergency Response: 24/7 assistance for storm damage, essential in a town that experiences significant seasonal weather variations. Our rapid response helps maintain safety for Drain's residents across all demographic groups, including the 25.4% under age 18 and 16.4% over age 65.

• Disease Management: Specialized treatment protocols designed for Drain's specific climate conditions that can impact tree vulnerability to various pathogens and pests.
  

Climate-Specific Tree Care Approach

Our approach to tree care in Drain acknowledges the town's unique characteristics. Under the leadership of Mayor Erin Sparhawk, this small but vibrant community maintains a strong connection to its natural surroundings. Our services support this relationship while ensuring safety and beauty.

Seasonal Maintenance Calendar for Drain's Mediterranean Climate

• Spring: Ideal for planting and fertilization when Drain's mild spring temperatures promote root establishment. After winter rainfall has subsided but before summer drought begins, we focus on setting trees up for successful growth.

• Summer: Focused watering regimens during Drain's hot, dry summers to prevent drought stress. The summer of 2003 saw only 0.21 inches of rain over three months in Drain, illustrating the potential for extreme drought conditions that require specialized tree care.

• Fall: Strategic pruning to prepare for winter and remove potentially hazardous branches before storm season. Fall is ideal for this work in Drain as it helps prevent damage during winter weather events.



• Winter: Protective measures against frost damage during Drain's wet, chilly winters. While severe freezes are uncommon, occasional cold snaps can damage vulnerable species without proper preparation.