Replacement of City trees at Nealon Park

Published on May 01, 2023

Earlier this year during a severe storm, three blue gum eucalyptus along the western perimeter of Nealon Park toppled over. Strong gusts from non-prevailing wind directions, saturated soil conditions and years of drought stress had all contributed to a higher likelihood of tree failure. 

The failures prompted the City to re-evaluate the condition and safety of the park’s eucalyptus and to develop a phased, long-term plan for tree removal and replacement. In mid-May 2023, the City will implement phase one of its tree replacement plan. Along the park’s western perimeter, three blue gum eucalyptus have been prioritized for removal due to the severity of existing health and structural issues. In addition, one leaning incense cedar and 14 non-heritage, suppressed coast redwoods will also be removed. The remaining eucalyptus will be pruned to reduce risk through the removal of dead and compromised branches and through the reduction of lateral branches. Shortly after removal and to help maintain the community’s urban forest canopy, these trees will be replaced with a robust combination of different deciduous and evergreen oak species.

As the trees grow, the oaks will replace screening for the neighboring properties, sequester carbon, improve air quality and provide cooling shade and wildlife habitat. Subsequent phases of the City’s tree replacement plan will be implemented over the next few years. Each year, a few additional eucalyptus will be selected for removal and replacement. This phased approach will help reduce the impact of the tree removals on the community. To learn more about heritage trees, visit the City’s Trees webpage.