Editor:
Re ‘Beloved’ black walnut tree behind Molly’s Reach to be removed’
I am shocked and dismayed that this magnificent landmark tree is to be felled this autumn. I can’t help wondering whether this could have been prevented, or its life prolonged, by diligent care over the past decades.
How much and how often have its roots been infringed on for construction, on the owner’s or the adjacent property? Why was it topped, and if this was truly necessary, was it done in the best possible manner to minimize weakening the tree? Could the concrete retaining wall have been modified to accommodate the growing trunk? How much has the adjacent ongoing slope disturbance affected the water flow (good drainage is required), and seriously damaged the roots? And why was the ivy allowed to grow to a degree that it keeps sunlight from reaching the leaves, and compete with the roots, thus robbing the tree of nourishment from both air and soil? As well as hiding possible signs of serious problems, and adding great weight and wind resistance that must severely stress the tree in storms.
When was the walnut added to the Town’s Heritage Inventory and Heritage Register, as a heritage tree? Does heritage designation not involve responsibility for care of the named subject? For example, in this case, requiring that the ivy be cut off at the base of the trunk so that it would die and eventually fall off, and doing the Town’s utmost to prevent the extensive root damage?
Are there other notable trees in this town, on private or public land, that are being put at risk through lack of knowledge and care? I hope we aren’t going to lose any more. As for the walnut, “Look thy last on all things lovely, every hour . . .” (Walter de la Mare).
Sincerely,
Sheila Weaver
Gibsons
