Beloved Canton Tree Pegged For Major Maintenance

CANTON, CT — Once pegged for the ax a year ago, a beloved sycamore tree in Canton is now pegged for some much-needed TLC next week.

The Town of Canton said Friday the tree, which is literally in the middle of the road at the intersection of West Mountain and Cherry Brook roads, will be the subject of some extensive maintenance work from Monday, Feb. 26, to Friday, March 1.

Canton Tree Warden Thomas Richardson and CT Arborist Steven Bristol both agreed the work was necessary, according to a notice from the town.

That work will include cutting back the encroaching pavement from the trunk flare at the base of the tree to allow for growth and remove any dirt and debris piled up against the trunk, town officials wrote.

The schedule of work is weather permitting.

Canton officials said the roadway will be open to local traffic at all times during this maintenance work, with possible delays.

About a year ago, the town planned to take down the tree due to safety concerns. But that proposal was met with opposition locally, as residents said the beloved tree is a quirky feature in Canton.

Ultimately, the tree survived and, now, instead of taking it down, the town is looking to ensure it can stay up as long as possible.

Anyone with questions on this situation can call the Canton Department of Public Works at (860) 693-7863.

To see a YouTube video made last year about Canton's quirky sycamore tree, click on this link.