Beloved Livermore Tree Saved From Chopping Block

LIVERMORE, CA — A popular oak tree tree growing in Sunset Park in Livermore will not be cut down, Livermore Area Recreation and Park District officials said this week.

Park District officials recently said the massive tree could possibly need to be removed or substantially pruned in order to keep park visitors safe. A large section of the tree has been supported by a pole for many years and signs have recently been posted to warn visitors to keep their distance.

“General Manager Tim Barry gave an informational report to the Board detailing District staff's plans to retain the tree, per arborist recommendations,” the district said in a statement.

Arborists from HortScience, Inc. and Dryad, LLC evaluated the mature tree and submitted their findings on the oak, which is believed to be about 200 years old. The public also gave their input. Livermore resident Nischal Belthangady started a petition asking the city council to save the beloved tree.

“These [arborists] recommendations included pruning the tree and removing the existing bench and tot lot, with the report adding that tree removal would eliminate all risk,” park district officials said in a statement.

District officials said they plan to follow the recommendations and prune the tree.

“The District will also relocate a picnic table, install permanent fencing and add signs that both warn the public to stay outside of the fenced area and educate about the natural condition of the tree and the significance of its age,” district officials said. “This plan also calls for removal of the existing play structure, currently almost 20 years old.”

Park district officials said the cost to keep the tree, while keeping the public safe, will be about $26,000, and will come from LARPD's contingency fund.

Previous coverage:

• Fate Of Beloved Livermore Oak Tree Still Uncertain
• Sunset Park Tree May Need To Be Removed Or Substantially Trimmed, Officials Say

Photo courtesy Livermore Area Recreation and Park District