When it comes to the trees in Ponoka most residents are likely to say how much they love them.
So when one resident saw town staff taking some down on his street recently there was some definite concern as to why. Ponoka News sent a query to the town to determine the process by which staff will remove these large trees.
Sandra Smith, communications manager, said that the trees specific to the resident’s area (5200 block of 50 Avenue) were removed due to some severe rotting. “It created a growing hazard…to homes and pedestrians.”
Part of the reason for the removal it appears is due to some grooming done to the trees about 35 to 40 years ago, says Smith. It is believed the trees were groomed in such a way that when it rained, water pooled in one spot causing the trees to rot over a long period of time.
Removing the large trees is a decision that is not taken lightly.
“The town places high value on the trees,” said Smith, adding that they are aesthetically pleasing to community streets.
Another instance that staff will trim or remove trees is if it becomes a safety concern. For electrical linemen trees being close to power lines are also considered a safety hazard.
There have also been times where heavy snowfall has caused tree branches to fall on vehicles, something public works staff have had to address over the years.
Smith added if a tree is on a person’s property the town will not take action.