A decaying willow tree at Ashley Pond Park is slated to be cut down Monday, May 22. Photo Courtesy LAC
Parts of the willow tree at Ashley Pond Park that show signs of decay. Photo Courtesy LAC
The willow tree at Ashley Pond Park close to the Los Alamos Community Building poses a safety hazard and is slated to be cut down Monday, May 22. Photo Courtesy LAC
COUNTY NEWS RELEASE
Los Alamos County Parks and Open Space Division, in consultation with an arborist from Southwest Fire Defense has determined the willow tree on the south side of the Los Alamos Community Building at Ashley Pond Park (475 20th Street) needs to be removed due to public safety concerns. Removal of the tree is scheduled for Monday, May 22.
“This willow tree is in a heavy state of decline, and with the high level of pedestrian traffic in the area, there is significant risk involved,” said Parks Superintendent Wendy Parker, “It’s important to keep everyone safe.”
The tree was damaged by lightning and is shedding bark, which is a big indicator of decay. Southwest Fire Defense was able to identify wood rot and disease, which makes the tree branches more likely to fall during strong winds or storms and attracts pests and wood-boring insects. In addition, if a tree is diseased, the infection can spread to other trees causing them to lose vitality. Currently, the tree is missing leaves and stands out across the beautiful landscape of Ashley Pond Park. Parks will be planting additional trees around the Ashley Pond Park area this coming fall. For more information, please contact Wendy Parker at wendy.parker@lacnm.us or call 505-663-1771.