WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A decaying horse chestnut tree on Purdue University’s Memorial Mall was removed Wednesday (July 1) to ensure public safety.
Example of a common Horse Chestnut Tree. The tree removed from campus today will be replaced later this year, according to university officials.
The tree, which had several decaying branches, will be replaced this fall at a location yet to be determined, said Gary Evans, director of grounds.
“The tree was diseased, and large limbs had broken off recently,” Evans said. “Students and campers liked to climb this tree, and that raised safety concerns that prompted the immediate removal of the tree.”
Purdue arborist Tim Detzner said that the tree was more than 120 years old, and its declining health was related to its natural life cycle. Large pockets of decay within the major stems weakened the branches, he said.
“We value the greenery we have on campus, but our students’ safety is what’s most important to us,” Evans said.
