Stand of Ash trees to be cut down in St-Malo Park

Approximately 800 trees will be cut down in St-Malo Park. This is the number specified by the City of Gatineau.

“The City of Gatineau’s management plan for the emerald ash borer calls for a planned cutting of infested ash trees and their replacement. The trees are cut for security reasons when the tree becomes a risk for the population. New trees will be planted, according to our management plan,” explains a city spokesperson.

Gatineau had started an ash tree treatment program against the emerald ash borer and St-Malo Park trees were targeted. Gatineau also has a replacement program for ash trees that are cut down in public spaces such as St-Malo Park in the Parc Champlain neighbourhood.

Part of the park has been abandoned by the City of Gatineau and is therefore not maintained, which displeases Marc St-Onge, former Parc Champlain and vicinity Residents Association President (2010-2014).

“Robert Pilon Street residents have come together and offered to pay a private contractor to cut the grass but the City has refused. The contract offer we had was only $120 per cut; it is a shame to ruin a park for so little savings,” says Mr St-Onge.

A city spokesperson indicated that discussions with affected citizens are ongoing to re-evaluate the level of service at St-Malo Park.
(Trans.: CB)