LETTER – Who will do something about this dead tree along Rivers Trail?
(Image: John Noakes)
It’s obvious by the photo that a public safety issue may be present. A tree, along side of Rivers Trail which runs parallel to Schubert Drive, stands dead and has been rotting for some time.
What might not be so obvious is the unseen lack of participation by people to become involved. Maybe, people who walk by this spot or drive by this spot don’t know whom to call to report the situation. Maybe the rank and file folks who fill up the container with biodegradable dog bags, empty the large steel garbage container (that has been removed), do road maintenance or respond to calls about untoward activities believe that old tree doesn’t particularly fall into their department’s responsibility.
Regardless of the history of this particular dead tree, perhaps the fate of the tree will soon be decided by an arborist.
One of the recipients of this photo gave me a gentle “in the future” instructional email in reply. I now understand that such trees should be reported to civic operations. Somehow, from there, reports of such trees are processed.
Even a fellow as old as I’m getting to be can appreciate the opportunity to learn something new each day. “Threescore and ten” is now within sight.
Happy Easter.
JOHN NOAKES,
Citizen of Westmount
ArmchairMayor.ca 
Update:
A small sign has been attached to the tree to advise the tree has been designated a “Wildlife Tree……Please do not disturb”
Yes, acknowledgement is given that birds especially have used this tree for nesting and feeding. But, is there still consideration required for a risk assessment as it also being a ‘dangerous tree’?
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Recently and old ruined tree in the west end of downtown came down and damaged a vehicle. Who is looking after the Kamloops’ urban forest? Good question.
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The powers that be should also look at the damage the homeless camps are doing to our river banks. The campers are removing valuable trees and brush that stabilize our river banks. The camp at the end of Fort St. has killed numerous bushes. Then when the camps catch on fire, more trees are damaged as evident by at least 3 camps that have caught on fire behind Henry Grube. Who is responsible for making sure that the homeless are not degrading the stability of the river banks?
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