This is a response to John Simeon’s Letter to the Editor ‘Cutting down trees disrespectful to alumna,’ (Opinion, Friday). We appreciate Mr. Simeon’s concern and are happy to provide insight regarding the Custodial and Grounds Department.’
Hurricane Ike, a natural event, caused considerable damage to the campus landscaping and we are still recovering. Many trees were lost or damaged beyond our ability to save them; however, very few trees that weren’t blown over by the winds were actually removed. Only one diseased, medium-sized pine tree has been removed in Lynn Eusan Park. The temporary ‘orange’ markings on some campus trees were part of a survey performed post-storm by urban forest experts whom we hired to assess the condition of campus trees. ‘
The orange markings in no way indicate that a tree is scheduled for removal; only that they were inspected.’
I assure the readership and Mr. Simeon that we are very serious about the condition and care for the trees and landscaping. Our department does not remove healthy living trees from campus and we go to great lengths to preserve trees and plant materials. We spend considerable time and resources caring for the’
trees to keep them safe and healthy. We also relocate mature trees whenever possible when a new building is under construction or expanded. Calhoun Road Esplanade and the Fleming Building expansion are examples of efforts undergone to preserve the environment. In these cases, approximately 30 mature oaks were relocated rather than lost to new construction. We only remove a healthy tree if it is damaged or considered a danger.’
Mr. Simeon referred to memorial trees as special and they, of course, are. We actually have hundreds of donated and memorialized trees on campus. One of our first priorities in the post-storm event was to replace memorial or donated trees. While memorial trees are unique, all of the campus trees are special and warrant our best efforts to preserve and protect them.’
We are fortunate indeed to have healthy and beautiful campus grounds in the middle of one of the largest urban areas in the country, and we take great pride and care in what we do.’ ‘
Alex Alexander, director of Custodial and Grounds, Plant Operations’ ‘
