Four diseased trees in Woodland Park are scheduled to be removed this week. The work will also include planting two large trees.
"We have been monitoring these trees for quite some time and attempts have been made over the years to do everything possible to save them," said Tim Queary, the city's urban forester. "Removing trees is never an easy decision but they are considered hazardous and structurally unsafe. When we considered the danger they could cause if they fell on somebody, our only option is to take them down."
The trees to be taken down are all diseased with various forms of heart rot decay. Efforts have been made to preserve the trees using such methods as crown reduction pruning techniques, vertical mulching and fertilization.
The city has planted 25 trees of various species in Woodland Park over the past three years. Each year, all trees in the park are evaluated and pruned as necessary.