Native trees are replacing aging and unsafe cedar trees as Welland continues to improve Chippawa Park. A city news release said the long-standing project to make safety improvements and rejuvenate the landscape at the First Avenue park has been reviewed by the municipality’s green advisory committee and is in its third phase. It includes removing and replacing aging and unsafe cedar trees and their stumps, grading the area, replanting it with native trees and then seeding the remaining area.
“As stewards of Chippawa Park, we recognize the importance of balancing conservation efforts with the safety and enjoyment of our residents,” said Dave Steven, manager of parks, forestry, cemeteries, operations and development, in the release. He said the project was planned with a thoughtful, environmentally-friendly approach to preserving the park’s natural beauty. The release said the primary reason for removing the cedar trees is they were nearing the end of their natural lifespan.
It also said the removal of the trees addressed concerns raised by residents, community groups and law enforcement, though it didn’t say what those concerns were. “The new landscaping design aligns with crime prevention through environmental-design principles, promoting a safer and more open environment for park visitors,” the release said..
