Corangamite Catchment Management Authority says it is continuing to remove “woody weeds” such as Ash trees from the Barwon River.
But the authority says it is still waiting on an aborists report on the future of 15 trees in Fyans Park, Newtown, being championed by a community campaign.
The November CCMA newsletter says not all Ash trees would be removed to retain shade and local amenity.
“The proposed tree removal is to help reduce the spread of Ash seeds downstream and their negative impact on biodiversity.
“The authority recognises the Geelong community’s strong affinity for the Barwon River parkland and is currently working through concerns expressed in response to proposed removal of the Ash trees with the community and local government representatives.
“CCMA initially delayed tree removal work in response to community concerns that the trees had historical significance. Meetings with the City of Greater Geelong councillors, relevant staff and subsequent investigations indicate the trees are not historically significant.
“CCMA management and board representatives met with community members to hear their concerns about retaining the area’s amenity, shade and avenue quality.
“In response to community feedback, CCMA has agreed Fyans Park must continue to have shade trees available and will not proceed with removing all the Ash trees.
“The City of Greater Geelong has also agreed to engage a qualified arborist to assess the trees’ health, and identify suitable replacements to be planted adjacent to the existing Ash trees.
“The arborist’s report, due in November, will help inform a final decision, which will be made in consultation with community representatives and the City of Greater Geelong.”
A CCMA spokesperson said the authority assumed it would have the report by mid-November.
Cr Stretch Kontelj, who initiated a Council motion to investigate the trees, said the aborists enquiry included the trees’ health, future life expectancy and any maintenance program needed while the trees were in good health.
“I am comfortable that after meeting the CCMA they won’t touch the trees,” Cr Kontelj said.
“They are looking brilliant and in full bloom at the moment. Now everyone can see the value of these trees and see why the community is so passionate about retaining them.
“Who in their right mind would want to cut these down?”
