| Removal of Butler Oak on Main Street and Selective Pruning of Large Limbs
It is with regret that we announce the scheduled removal of one of the Butler Oaks along Main Street; the tree is located in the right-of-way adjacent to Helen’s Gardens (second tree from the corner of Main Street and Kansas). The structurally unstable tree, showing significant decay, poses a public hazard to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The condition of the tree has been assessed and verified by three Certified Arborists, and the tree shows at least 50% decay. Bracing and other tree support systems are not an option because of the sheer weight of the tree; it is estimated to be in excess of 8,000 pounds.
We anticipate the removal to occur within the next ten days. The tree will be cut at ground level to mitigate the potential hazard. Since this area is within the TXDOT ROW, any future tree replacements would need to be authorized and coordinated with TXDOT. A large portion of the tree extends over several lanes of Main Street; as a result, traffic will be affected in the work zone. Additionally, crews will perform selective pruning on several large limbs on adjacent trees along the right-of-way at the same time; performing selective pruning of large limbs concurrently will minimize impact on traffic. These large limbs also extend over the street and show signs of decay (i.e. white rot); removal may prevent potential hazards in the future. “League City’s living legacy of beautiful live oak trees began in the 1870’s when George Washington Butler established his ranch headquarters in town, and planted live oak trees around it. Many of these trees are still appreciated today in Helen’s Gardens, at the north end of the 30 acres bordered by Main, Kansas, and Walker Streets, and the GH&H Railroad”—excerpt from Live Oaks of League City |
