“Dear neighbors, several of Abbottsford’s trees were removed today by West Tree Care, including some we have been observing but hoped would not require removal. Those trees were assessed by an arborist today and determined to pose an unacceptable safety or health risk. After an arborist assessment, the Board decided to proceed with removing two maples dying in the first median, 3 pine trees at the end of St. James Park, and one leaning, diseased pine on Kensington Park. We pay 30% less by removing them today, as opposed to requiring a separate visit for their removal. All trees were evaluated by plant pathologists and arborists and had one of four major problems necessitating their removal. The playground oak tree and some pine trees had lost their structural integrity and posed an unacceptable safety risk to life and property. To honor the magnificent playground oak tree, “tree cookies” or cross-sections of the oak tree will be created and placed in the playground mulch area as a nature play element for Abbottsford’s children and grandchildren. Other maple and redbud trees had significant and unsolvable health problems that posed a risk of spreading to nearby, mature, healthy trees. Pathologists diagnosed those trees with either Slime Flux/Bacterial Wetwood, Bot Canker, or Granulate Ambrosia Beetle infestations.
Replacement trees will be planted during the dormant season to replace the lost trees, where appropriate. Increasing tree diversity in Abbottsford will help minimize future removals and improve our aesthetic.”
Stump Grinding and Future Planting Update:
“Stumps were ground on Bowring Park’s parking areas, Green Park, and at the Playground Oak in preparation for plantings to occur during this fall & winter. Dead and weak shrubs in HOA common areas around some utility box screenings will be removed in September by Full Circle Tree & Shrub. Replacement plantings will take place this fall & winter to provide the necessary screening of utility boxes.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Ashley Cantrell
Landscape Chair”
