Interim Town Administrator Judith Mooney and Tree and Park Committee Chairperson Margie Baldwin wish to inform the community that the town will remove a large spruce tree near the Elizabeth Taber Library next week due to safety concerns.
Work to remove the tree is expected to begin on Monday, January 30.
The tree sits between the library and Sippican Elementary School. The tree, which is believed to be over 100 years old, is regularly cared for by the Marion Parks and Tree Committee.
When it was noticed that the tree was losing branches and bark, it was evaluated by Bartlett Tree Experts who determined that the tree had been struck by lightning, was severely compromised and needed to be removed due to the possibility that it could fall, especially during a weather event.
A children’s memorial garden also sits near the tree, which was constructed in memory of four children who have passed away while attending the Sippican School. The area includes four engraved benches and multiple planting beds.
Once the tree is safely removed, the Parks and Tree Committee plans to plant additional trees for the families. The committee hopes to involve the four families and current Sippican School students as they plan additions to the memorial area.
“We know that this tree and its position as part of the memorial garden is an important part of our town and is recognizable by many; however, we must put safety first,” Interim Town Administrator Mooney said. “The town will support the Parks and Tree Committee as it makes plans to replace the tree so that the area can continue to be meaningful and honor the young lives that were lost.”
Planting of potential new trees may occur in the spring once the area has been cleared.