Musings: Nassau County revives its war against trees
In some neighborhoods, tree-lined streets are becoming a thing of the past. Credit: Newsday/William Perlman
I have resided in Syosset for 27 years. Nine years ago, I joined STOMP — Save Trees Over More Pavement — a group comprising residents concerned about the excessive removal of trees alongside Nassau County roads.
STOMP went to county court to save over 200 healthy oak and sycamore trees from destruction on South Oyster Bay Road. Nearly 3,000 residents signed a petition, but a state appellate court in Brooklyn sided with Nassau County, dismissed the case, and the trees were soon removed.
We now find ourselves in a similar situation. Recently, several workers walked down our street, spray-painting their dreaded orange (usually red) dot at the foot of almost every mature tree near the curbs in our neighborhood. I’d estimate they marked about 95% of the trees. It’s a war against trees.
I asked them, why remove these trees? To make way for new curbs, I was told. Really?
These trees, which provide vital shade, beauty, climate benefits, increased property values and homes for wildlife, were obstructing this important project. Most curbs are fine.
It’s outrageous that taxpayers who live here were not asked for their opinions.
Many Nassau County communities have been impacted by the county’s zeal to destroy healthy trees, using millions of our tax dollars. Countless trees have been destroyed. Sidewalks and curbs can be repaired while preserving trees.
If residents want to take down a tree, we must get a form approved by the town. But Nassau County can destroy the landscape forever, randomly and extensively, as it sees fit. Many residents have tried to reach out to officials, but most of the time, we don’t even get a return call.
STOMP has tried valiantly to preserve trees for our health and future generations. County officials should do the same.
Growing up in Nassau County, I developed a love for trees and enjoyed seeing them change with the seasons. Most children growing up in Syosset today won’t know about the beauty of a tree-lined street.
It is sad for all of us that the county is destroying trees with as much thought as pulling out a weed.
— Lynn Dakss, Syosset
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