Editor:
During a morning stroll on May 13, I heard chainsaws and saw neighbours witnessing a historical event, as trees that have stood for over 200 years were being designated for destruction. This is so that a new home could be built on a 50-by-100 lot in Ocean Park.
When I arrived, there was also an employee from the City of Surrey bylaws department in her vehicle. It appears that a neighbour called the massacre in to the city. I and a neighbour approached the city employee and it was from her we learned a permit had been issued.
Ocean Park neighbours made headlines when they got the building code changed to smaller houses so that the much valuable trees could be saved (Downzoning idea spreads out, Oct. 28). There are ‘big trees not homes’ signs posted all over the neighbourhood. The city obviously did not listen or care.
These trees are so very important to stabilize the soil. There is erosion here to the bluff, and every year it can be measured. These trees clean the air, and protect us from the winds that come off the ocean.
Currently, the trees are home to nesting birds, including the bald-headed eagle. This area is home to many rare birds and wildlife. Scientists say that for every seven trees lost, so is one human life.
This clearcutting of evergreen trees, which in some subdivisions have a covenant placed on them, is almost now a daily occurrence. Three weeks ago, two trees on the south side of 16 Avenue came down; one of them – well over 200 years old – was on city property. The week before, more chainsaws were heard nearby.
Why do these trees not have covenants on them? They were not even impairing an ocean view.
It is time for pro-active action. The people of Ocean Park have spoken, but the city did not listen. Covenants need to be placed to protect these trees, before we destroy all these magnificent trees.
I know that the value of land here is not just due to the ocean. In Greater Vancouver, the most valuable areas have old trees. Cutting these trees down does not add any value!
Barb Popil, Surrey
