Oak Tree Removed Outside CPSD Headquarters

Something is missing from the Clover Park School District’s Student Services Center.

A large Great White Oak tree was removed last week from the grounds on Gravelly Lake Drive.

The winter snowstorm that closed schools for four days in January sparked the concerns, as the tree’s trunk split from the top to two-thirds of the way down to the base. District crews removed the broken limbs and pruned the tree until further evaluations could be completed.

But after winds on the evening of March 12 brought down several additional limbs, the district decided it was necessary for the tree to be removed for safety reasons.

“We have had many inquiries from community members about what is happening to the tree,” said Kim Prentice, director of community relations, in a statement from the district. “It was a beautiful, old tree. Unfortunately, it became a safety hazard.”

The district annually inspects hazardous or potentially unsafe trees and conditions to make recommendations for long-term management.