As debate continues on the possibility of replacing part of Jesup Green with parking spots, Westport’s tree warden has issued a report.
Ben Sykas — a certified arborist — examined 3 trees, at the easternmost (top) portion of the green. All would be removed, under a current renovation plan.
Aerial view of Jesup Green in summer. The Westport Library is at left; Jesup Road is on the right. The Norway spruce is identified by a green pin; the white pine by blue, the linden by purple.
The same scene in winter.
Sykas says that the Norway spruce “contains significant structural concerns which warrant its removal when actionable.
“Conifer trees in general are weak wooded trees, in conjunction with codominant structure containing decay and separation are factors that cannot be reliably mitigated.”
Norway spruce at Jesup Green. Close-up photos in the tree warden’s report show seams, and root damage.
Two other trees warrant further examination, Sykas says.
The white pine tree is a member of a species that is fast growing and thus “weak wooded.”
Limb failure is common in white pines during weather events like wind, snow and ice, Sykas says.
They are also known for “uprooting due to shallow footing.” Because of its location and exposure due to its height and open surroundings, plus previous branch failures, “mitigation to reduce risk might be possible.” Further investigation is needed however, according to the tree warden.
White pine at Jesup Green. Other photos in the report show branch structure and roots.
The linden tree “appears to be in average health.” Recent pruning reduced the risk of falling branches. Like white pines, lindens also grow rapidly and can be weaker than other species. They can be prone to cavities and decay.
Sykas recommends further investigation of this linden’s cavity.
Click here full the tree warden’s full report.
Linden at Jesup Green. Close-up photos are in the tree warden’s report.
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