Fate Of Beloved Livermore Oak Tree Still Uncertain

LIVERMORE, CA — The report with findings from two arborists about a mature oak tree tree growing in Livermore’s Sunset Park will be presented to the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District’s Board of Directors on March 29, park district officials said. Livermore Area Recreation and Park District officials recently said the massive tree may 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.

Arborists from HortScience, Inc. and Dryad, LLC have evaluated the popular tree and submitted findings on the tree, which is believed to be about 200 years old.

“We have received plenty of public input and feedback on the desire to save this tree,” said General Manager Tim Barry in a statement. “I’m glad to see how enlightened the public is to the many benefits trees provide us in our parks and appreciation, in particular, for the older trees. The park district obviously loves and cares for trees daily, but there are many factors involved in considering what’s in the best interest of the public and the District in serving the public in this situation, so we are taking our time to study all of the issues and provide information to our Board for consideration.”

If officials decide to remove the tree, the healthy parts will be salvaged for use as benches and new trees would be planted to replace the oak. The beehives in the tree will also be safely moved to another location. Click here to view the reports.

Although the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District will make the determination on the fate of the tree, resident Nischal Belthangady started a petition asking the city council to save the beloved tree. Click here to view the petition.

See Also:

• Petition Started In Effort To Save Beloved Sunset Park Tree

Photo courtesy Livermore Area Recreation and Park District