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The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) removed a big-leaved fig on Caroline Hill Road today (March 10) to ensure public safety. The tree was confirmed to be dead and has potential danger of collapse following detailed discussions and analysis with members of the tree expert group.
Listed on the Register of Old and Valuable Trees (OVTs) with the registration number WCH/8, the 15-metre tall big-leaved fig was located in the workshop of Electrical and Mechanical Services Department on Caroline Hill Road. During a regular inspection early last year, the tree was found with abnormal defoliation and bark peeling off. Remedial measures including trimming of dead branches, application of fungicide and insecticide as well as improvement of soil around the tree were carried out immediately.
The tree has been closely monitored by the department. However, its health condition was deteriorating gradually and its branches were found withering. Earlier this year, the main trunk and branches were found decaying and part of the trunk was attacked by woodborers. After detailed discussions and analysis with the tree expert group, the department confirmed that the tree was dead and posed potential danger of collapse. To safeguard public safety, the department decided to remove the tree.
The department stressed that it would continue to adopt a prudent approach in managing its trees and removing a problematic tree would only be the last resort when there is no other viable option to keep it.
Ends/Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:20
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