Good news: The very old Elm tree in the Plaza will NOT be removed
Posted on June 13, 2024 by Sonoma Sun
The City of Sonoma has received the final report on the investigation into the American Elm tree on the plaza at the northeast corner; it’s good news!
Based on the testing performed, the tree does not structurally pose an imminent risk and there is little evidence of the Armillaria disease that raised the initial concern.
Based on the contents of the report and discussions with the City’s arborist and the fact that there is no imminent danger present, Sonoma City Manager David Guhin has authorized opening the grounds/parking around the tree by the end of day, June 13.
In a memo to the City Council, next steps were outlined by Guhin:
- Barricades will be removed.
- A sign will be put up to explain that the area is safe to occupy
- Our Social Media and website will be updated with this new information
- The lab is testing the mushrooms to determine if there is any evidence of Armillaria disease or any other concerns that would provide us information on how best to manage the tree going forward. We expect those results in the next 2 weeks.
- Watering in the direct vicinity of the tree has been changed to not get the tree trunk wet during daily watering.
- Staff will work with the arborist on a long-term maintenance plan to address the cavity in the tree trunk (pruning, cables, etc.).
