Phantom tree huggers have used chalk-based paint to share the groans of the trees at Zoo Lake ahead of the festive season.
Chair of the Zoo Lake Users Committee, Fran Haslam said she did not know who painted these trees but agreed that the trees needed to be protected.
“Many of the trees at Zoo Lake are damaged because of careless people who braai and throw their hot coals on the trunks of the trees,” said Haslam.
Head of the Zoo Lake Tree Committee, Sue Taylor said despite the fact that many trees showed resilience, others have to be cut down due to the untold damage caused by people who braaied illegally in the park.
“People cannot braai here except in the designated braai areas,” said Haslam, drawing attention to the bylaws signposted all over the public park.
“I encourage park users to enjoy their picnics here and keep the park clean, green and safe,” she added.
Taylor added that displaced persons have been observed starting fires at the base of trees on cold evenings, causing great damage to the trees.
“Climate change is an emergency and we have to plant trees and care for our existing trees,” said Taylor. “Just when we need more trees to be planted, the shot-hole borer has hit our city and people are wrecking our existing trees. We need to protect our trees.”
Taylor added that the tree committee was working to develop a tree policy and plan for Zoo Lake with more tree-planting projects scheduled for the new year.
Haslam said, “Community members have helped us make a phenomenal change at the park this year and we want to continue these efforts into 2020.”
Since the establishment of the tree committee earlier this year, 25 new trees have already been planted in the park.
Taylor appealed for community members to donate agapanthus and dietes (wild iris) plants to assist in the erosion project. The committee is also looking for a certified arborist or tree felling company to volunteer their time to help uplift the park.
Details: rhtaylor@icon.co.za
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