'Cherished' Trees On Hudson River Waterfront Being Removed After Falling Limbs Revealed Problems

TOWN OF CORTLANDT, NY — A popular Hudson River waterfront park will look a little different the next time you see it, after Cortlandt town officials were forced to make a difficult decision.

"It is with sadness that we report that some of the largest, oldest, and most cherished Silver Maple trees along the pathway at the Cortlandt Waterfront Park are dead or dying," Town supervisor Richard Becker announced.

Becker said the town become aware of the problem when several large limbs fell. The town arborist investigated and found that the trees were "hollowed out" and could not be saved, making the only option removal of the trees

"To confirm this, as a physician, I asked for a second opinion," Becker said. "The town board agreed and we hired an outside arborist, certified by the International Society of Arborists (ISA). Unfortunately, this second opinion confirmed that the trees were dead, dangerous, and must be removed for public safety."

Becker said, however, that there is a silver lining to the sad news.

"Fortunately, the town board has authorized the replacement of these trees and then some — this extensive replanting of trees will begin this fall with continued planting next spring. Obviously, it will take some time for these trees to grow and reach maturity. However, this is the natural cycle of life."