On August 31, the Abernethy Maple made it's last stand as it was being prepared to be removed from the site. The majestic tree, positioned just to the East of the Pioneer Garden, was estimated to be over 100 years old, and had been on the decline for a couple years due to poor drainage problems. The City arborist gave it a hazard rating of 10 (out of 12) and the decision was made for removal to avoid any harm to the public.
A few of the larger branches were saved for future benches and pieces of the trunk will be made into tables for the garden area.
