Why was the Westlake Village oak tree felled on Thursday? According to a story in the 10-14 VC Star, the historic oak at the corner of Westlake Boulevard and Triunfo Canyon Road, had a fungus that weakens limbs and trunks. The VC Star further said, that said when city officials received the opinion of an arborist on Monday, saying that the tree’s canopy could fall on Triunfo Canyon Road at any time, they decided to chop it down immediately. For the full story, go to: VC Star, 10-14, Westlake Oak Comes Down
We love our oak trees in the Conejo Valley…that’s just the way it is. So, I think we should ask ourselves if this tree was receiving the care and concern it deserved, and I believe the answer is, “No.” Here is what the Ventura County Tree Protection information says: “Oaks are perhaps the most sensitive of the protected trees. Trenching and grading the ground beneath the tree canopy should always be avoided.” The protected zone for oaks is 5 feet beyond the edge of the canopy, or dripline, as it is called. Here is a link” Ventura County Tree Protection Ordinance.
This tree was growing and flourishing for centuries before Triunfo Canyon Road was placed within its dripline on one side. According to the Ventura Tree Ordinance, that is not advised. How muchdid both the road and the vehicle traffic stress the tree, which might have lead it to be susceptible to the fungus that necessitated its removal? We will never know, but, please, let’s take care of the remaining historic trees in the Conejo Valley!
George // Oct 15, 2011 at 8:43 PM
Janna I guess u r one of the tree huggers. I read the same story. They brought in an outside expert from Simi; Mitnick was hoping to buy time, but I give preference to my fellow human beings ANY day vs any tree, regardless of how majestic it may be.
It was great that it was preserved and no accidents happened There was a tree at the entrance to city chambers which was saved, but then had to be cut up.
I guess you do NOT trust the experts and see a conspiracy in everything; many comments in the paper, I do not know why you have few people commenting here!
Appreciate you having this forum.
Jeanne Cope // Oct 16, 2011 at 7:52 PM
George, I believe there is room in this world for the betterment of human beings and trees. In fact, I find having trees, parks and open space improves the quality of life for us humans. I guess you do not question authority. The lack of planning and respect of open space by the “experts” at times is outrageous. Streets, communities, side walks should take into account the needs of these Oak beauties. After all, that is why they call it Thousand Oaks. That is why we live here.
Mikey // Oct 17, 2011 at 9:07 PM
We have enough people…I say we give the trees a priority for a change….I disagree with George.
The tree would have been fine…it should have been left alone. I don’t trust “tree experts” either. A developer can buy a tree expert to say whatever he needs them to say.