The large and historic elm tree adjacent to the Admissions, Financial Aid, and Student Life building will be removed this week. During the removal, access to the building at the main entrance will still be available. Guest parking in front of the building will also stay open. Read on for details about this historic tree.
Unfortunately, and despite multiple treatments over several years, the historic American elm on campus next to the Admissions, Financial Aid, and Student Life building has succumbed to Dutch elm disease. This was the assessment of three arborists and confirmed in a laboratory test. The decline was very rapid.
The tree can be viewed here: http://oak.conncoll.edu:8080/notabletrees/ViewTreeData.jsp?selected=64220
We are in the process of identifying ways that the incredible volume of wood can be used responsibly. Elm is a “soft hardwood” and not best suited for outdoor use. We are taking requests from the community (individuals, departments). If you would like some wood or want to place a custom order (for use on or off campus) please let us know ASAP. We plan to send some of the wood to a local company that is capable of making tables, benches, display pieces, etc.
The elm has had a long and majestic life, but the decline was rapid. Removing it is necessary, and we will confirm the age of the tree as part of this process.
We would like to thank the tireless work of many staff, and especially Shawn Morrell of ABM, for their dedication to trying to save this tree, for handling its removal, and for helping the community save a piece of history.
