Council to cull poor poplars

By Kath Gannaway
HEALESVILLE’S River Street tree-scape is being assessed with a public meeting scheduled for February to look at future plans for the popular avenue of shade trees.
Yarra Ranges Council is reviewing the long-term requirements of the trees.
A shire spokesperson said last week concerns about the health of the trees and the need to ensure pedestrian and road user safety had led to seven poplar trees being identified as either dead or in very poor condition, and in need of removal.
Ryrie Ward councillor Jeanette McRae said the council had not taken the decision to remove the trees lightly and that community safety was a top priority.
“It’s never good to see trees being removed, but in this case assessments have shown a clear need to take this action,” Cr McRae said.
“This particular row of trees has had a history of branch failure and we are concerned that pedestrians and road users along River Street could be at risk of injury should more branches fall,” she said.
Cr McRae said a meeting was being organised for February next year to give interested residents input into options to maintain the remaining row of trees.
“We hope to put together a small steering committee, to be made up of council arborists and a few of the people who attend the February meeting,” she said.
“I’m sure there will be many local community groups interested in this project, so nominating just one person to represent their group on the committee will assist in keeping the committee small and effective.”
Expressions of interest for this committee can be sent by mail to council arborist Paul Mechelen at P.O. Box 105, Lilydale 3140.
Further details about the meeting including date, time and location will be confirmed in January.