To the Editor:
Today, I had a tree a tree planted in honor of Arbor Day, April 27. I donated the cost of the tree through the Living Landscape Fund (www.alexandriava.gov/LivingLandscape). The tree was planted at Founders Park to replace a tree that was to be removed. I have always advocated that we should have one-for-one tree replacement in the city to maintain our tree canopy, and I wanted to show that I will support this.
I have seen many empty tree wells across the city, and always wondered why they sit for so long. The City Arborist, Joh Noelle, told me today, that all a resident has to do is call the City Arborist office (703-746-5496) and pick a tree off the approved list of new trees, and show a commitment by being willing to water the tree to help its success.
Without someone willing to nurture a new tree, it may not succeed, so they are not always replaced right away.
According to the Trust for Public Land, “A single mature tree can absorb carbon dioxide at a rate of 48 lbs./year and release enough oxygen back into the atmosphere to support two human beings." Trees also provide shade and habitat. This will make us all breathe easier.
Boyd Walker
Candidate for Alexandria City Council