Leave the oaks

Developers have proposed to redevelop the Morgan-Girard and adjacent lot in West Annapolis (The Capital, Dec. 11). I have no issue with their concept; I do have a problem with their proposal to cut down the two large oak trees now standing on the property.

These trees provide shade for Annapolis Street and add considerably to the character and charm of this pedestrian-friendly street.

Mature trees, especially oaks, provide an array of benefits to both people and wildlife: they absorb stormwater, take up nutrients, hold sediment in place, offer shade and host important insects critical to songbirds. Although the developers propose to plant many small trees, each one is a fraction of the size of the current trees and will do nothing to replace the lost canopy. The proposed three streetside ornamental cherries have little ecological value, especially compared to the oaks there now.

Losing trees is not a sentimental notion as implied by the developers; trees are critical to our health and our ecosystems. Given the city’s tree code and canopy goals (reaching 50% coverage by 2036), we must critically assess whether any large tree slated for felling really must come down.

This project should not be rushed through. The Planning Commission should reject the current plan to allow the city to work with the developer to modify the plan and come up with a reasonable compromise. Ramming this project through would set a detrimental precedent for the developer’s other projects in West Annapolis.

NINA FISHER

Annapolis