A 60-year-old elm tree at 900 Manhattan Drive in Kelowna was recently poisoned. The City of Kelowna is trying to find the person responsible for the “senseless” vandalism of trees on public property. The city says a large elm tree was recently poisoned and later died at 900 Manhattan Drive. Unfortunately, the connected root system on the trees also led to the death of seven poplar trees. “These deliberate actions that harm our trees are truly tragic and senseless,” said urban forestry technician Tara Bergeson. “With all the benefits trees bring to our city, the big question when it comes to tree vandalism is ‘why’? The elm tree in Manhattan was a mature tree that provided shade, helped clean the neighborhood air, and beautified the street.” The elm has been there for more than 60 years and its removal will cost taxpayers $5,000. Anyone caught vandalizing or removing trees from city property can be fined $50,000. Anyone with information is asked to contact the City of Kelowna at 250-469-8500 or call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Photo: City of Kelowna
