Tree Removals

City Council approved the preconstruction package for Tree removals at Fred Richards Park on April 7th. Trees are being removed that were designated based on hazard conditions or conflict with new park features.

What is happening?

To prepare for construction later this summer and through 2027 we need to remove trees that were designated hazards or conflicting with new grading and features. We are preserving as many healthy valuable trees as possible for habitat of existing species. Grading is needed in order to remove foreign materials from golf course construction and improve water and habitat quality. Invasive species will be removed as well in order to establish native ecosystems.

New trees will be added and enhance in 2027 after final grades are set and features are in place. New plantings will be climate resilient trees that complement the natural resource enhancements and create habitat for wildlife. The trees that will be planted will not provide the same type of arboreal habitat for 20 years or so, but are part of a critical landscape succession planting. There will be other types of habitat improvement in the near term – replacing turfgrass with native grasses and wildflowers will improve habitat for pollinators, as well as a variety of birds including goldfinches, song sparrows, and chipping sparrows, in a matter of 2-3 years. It will also improve habitat for aquatic and amphibious species that use the ponds by creating gentle pond banks and an abundance of native cover and transitional habitat niches.

Large equipment will be needed in order to safely remove some of the larger trees. Grinding equipment will also be present to chip materials so those can be used for mulch or energy. Some trees have been identified to be repurposed and continue as play features or seating elements in the new park.

Why now?

Tree removals were timed to minimize habitat disturbances for species currently residing in the park. This timing took into consideration the emergence of reptiles and amphibians as well as nesting and rearing patterns of birds and bats. The trees will be removed first and then stumps and grub materials will be removed later in the season to minimize soil disruption during this phase. Once these trees are removed we can look to the next phase of land-shaping and creation of the amazing eco park and its features.