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An Old and Valuable Tree in Victoria Park has been removed to ensure public safety after it was found to be in unsatisfactory health and have the risk of collapse, a spokesman for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said today (October 18).
The removed tree was a 14-metre-tall South China Honeylocust, listed on the Register of Old and Valuable Trees with the registration number LCSD E/35.
The spokesman said that during a regular inspection last September, department staff found that the tree had abnormal defoliation with lots of dried and dead branches. The department had been closely monitoring the situation of the tree and had taken remedial measures including trimming of dead branches and applying fertiliser to improve the soil around the tree. However, the overall health condition of the tree did not show signs of improvement and worsened. During an inspection in August this year, LCSD staff found that the health condition of the tree was further deteriorating, with its roots showing signs of decay and an increasing number of dead branches.
The Tree Management Office of the Development Bureau further reviewed and analysed the tree concerned in mid-September this year and believed that the tree had signs of attack by fungus, resulting in abrupt decline in tree health without vitality.
"The tree was located near the passageway inside Victoria Park. To ensure public safety, we decided to remove it as soon as possible after consulting the Expert Panel on Tree Management of the Development Bureau," the spokesman said.
He stressed that the LCSD will continue to inspect and maintain trees with due care, and removal of any trees will be the last resort only when there are no other viable options.
Ends/Thursday, October 18, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:01
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