MINOT, ND (KXNET) — Multiple departments in the City of Minot have teamed up to collect hundreds of tree piles still in the city after the windstorm two weeks ago. Crews from multiple departments have already collected more than 2,000 tree piles since October 7, and there are more than 700 piles remaining. The departments have a new plan, which will go into effect Monday, Oct. 2. Here is the updated plan: Sanitation and street department crews will be working in northwest Minot. After the NW quadrant is completed, crews will move to the SW, SE, and NE quadrants, in that order. Once crews complete a sweep of each quadrant, any new tree piles will be collected by sanitation crews as part of their regular process as time permits. Public Works Operations Director Bryan Banfill says it’s difficult to estimate how long the mass tree collection process will take to complete. The number of tree piles continues to grow, and the number of additional city employees available to help remove them is limited because they have other seasonal responsibilities. Climate prediction for ND this winter: Cold, normal precip, continued drought “Our street crews are busy preparing for winter weather, including sweeping streets to keep leaves and other debris out of the curb and the storm sewer drains,” Banfill said. “Our crews are patching water break holes and adjusting manhole covers prior to the first freeze or snowfall to prevent damage during snow removal, and we’re also blading alleys and putting down gravel in preparation for winter.” Banfill says they're going to work to remove the tree piles as quickly as possible. The City of Minot reminds residents that branches should be stacked or bundled as neatly as possible on the boulevard. Branches should be no longer than 6 feet, and logs must be less than 10 inches in diameter. Logs and bundles should not exceed 40 pounds. They also ask that cut ends of branches are placed towards the street to make collection more efficient for the crews. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW