(image from Township of Georgian Bluffs)
An 150-year-old English oak tree in Shallow Lake will stay standing, for now.
The Township of Georgian Bluffs issued a statement saying there was an assessment of oak wilt last week by a certified arborist, but the Canadian Food Inspection Agency was contacted and attended yesterday (Monday) to inspect the tree on 2nd Street in Shallow Lake.
“Based on that review, oak wilt has been ruled out as the cause of the tree’s decline,” a release from the township explains.
The township says while oak wilt has been ruled out, the tree remains in a state of decline and further professional opinions will be sought to plan next steps.
“The Township is continuing to seek additional professional opinions to better understand its condition, and determine whether portions of the tree can be safely retained or whether full removal will ultimately still be required. No further work will take place until that review is complete,” the Township of Georgian Bluffs says in a release. “We recognize that this tree holds a special place in the history and identity of Shallow Lake. For that reason, we are taking the time necessary to fully evaluate all available options before making a final decision.”
Several residents contacted Bayshore News to express disappointment about the township’s initial decision last week to remove the historic oak tree — a decision now on hold for further evaluation of the tree’s health.
Township staff say if tree removal is still ultimately required, opportunities will be explored to preserve part of the tree as a permanent commemorative feature.