Twenty-two trees around campus have been cut down.
Angie Girdham, Hillsdale’s horticulturist, said they are being taken down because they pose some danger to either people or buildings.
Last semester, Girdham had the campus’ trees reviewed for potential problems.
“Most of my training is in ornamental horticulture,” Girdham said. “I thought it would be beneficial to have a certified arborist come on campus and evaluate the trees.”
Girdham explained that most of the removed trees suffered from overall decline or insect infestation. Much of the tree decline is caused by recent construction projects.
“The soil around the roots is compacted by new construction and within five to seven years you will see severe tree decline,” Girdham said.
Lonnie’s Tree Service removed 22 of approximately 1,500 trees on campus, and also pruned another 14 areas where dead or hanging limbs posed a threat to student’s safety.
“We do our best to be proactive,” Girdham said.
She also mentioned that one bad ice storm could mean the need for reassessment.
Proximity to benches, walkways and buildings determined each tree’s danger—places where a falling branch or entire trunk could harm students or staff.
The most threatening trees were located by the Clubhouse at Hayden Park and by Delp Hall. Girdham said she will have a spring order of replacement trees. She will take into account the invasive insects headed to Michigan and choose trees with a tolerance toward them.
“I will put the trees wherever I see a need for them, avoiding underground utilities,” Girdham said. “I always try to plant them fairly close to where they were removed, if possible.”
The stumps will be removed by Mr. Stumpgrinder, a subcontractor of Lonnie’s Tree Service.
