We have been asked quite frequently why so many trees were cut down at Punderson State Park. The reason is that many of the trees were dead, dying, diseased or dangerous. Meaning that if they fit any of those conditions, they were to be cut down.
The Emerald Ash Borer has unfortunately become prevalent in many areas including Northeast Ohio. It has taken its toll on the Ash tree population and was cause for at least some of the tree removal. THIS IS WHY IT IS SO IMPORTANT NOT TO MOVE FIREWOOD! DO NOT PICK UP WOOD WHILE TRAVELING, OR TRANSPORT IT FROM ONE PLACE TO ANOTHER.
Other trees such as Beech, tend to dye from the inside out, creating a “healthy looking” tree but in reality the inside is gone, and it is likely to fall with the right conditions endangering park guests.
The safety of park guests as long as the health of the park in general are important to the ODNR, Division of Forestry and Punderson. The trees would not have been removed or cut down unless absolutely necessary.
As a Horticulturalist myself, I know that once spring comes many of the “bare” areas will grow in in no time and many of the removed trees will hardly be noticeable once summer comes. Unfortunately at the moment it looks a little sparse, and there are still a lot of debris laying around the park. Most of this will be cleaned up and removed, Punderson also hosts a “Clean-Up Day” around Earth Day, where you can help clean up the park and trails.
Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to stay posted about happens at the park and special events!