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Altadena's Tree Canopy Under Threat as Residents Protest Removals

Residents protest sudden tree removals. They fear losing Altadena's unique character and worry about safety in future fires.

In the image there are trees all over the land.
In the image there are trees all over the land.

Altadena's Tree Canopy Under Threat as Residents Protest Removals

Altadena residents are grappling with the future of their tree canopy, as the City of Pasadena's Department of Public Works considers removing more trees following the Eaton fire. Residents fear that these removals could strip Altadena of its character and nature, while also raising safety concerns about potential falling trees in future fires.

The debate over tree preservation in Altadena has been fueled by the lack of protections for healthy trees, unlike in neighboring Pasadena. Residents worry that new homeowners and developers may tear down healthy trees, further diminishing the area's canopy. At least 50% of Altadena's pre-fire canopy has already been lost due to the fire, cleanup operations, and new property owners clearing land for construction.

Residents have expressed their concerns about the necessity of tree removals, highlighting the importance of trees for canopy cooling, wildlife protection, and buffering reflected heat from hard surfaces. A recent protest was held after residents felt blindsided by the sudden loss of trees that shielded homes from the Eaton fire. A resident even attempted to save a healthy deodar cedar from being cut down on private property but was unsuccessful.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works initially monitored 3,000 trees for health and safety but has since reduced that number to 200, with plans to cut down nearly 60 more trees. Eucalyptus trees on Glenrose Avenue were even cut down without warning, despite appearing healthy and having green shoots.

The future of Altadena's trees remains uncertain, with ongoing construction and tree removals by the county, as well as new property owners clearing land for development. Residents continue to voice their concerns and advocate for the preservation of their area's tree canopy, hoping to maintain Altadena's unique character and nature.

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