In reply to Susan Miller’s letter on March 26, I could not agree more.
If I recall correctly, the Poplar Removal Program has been ongoing from at least 2006, yet only months ago did we get a notice in the mail that they were removing trees in our area despite them removing trees for years and them still not being replaced. As a resident who lives against Boudreau Road, the removal of the trees has left a bad taste in many mouths for these trees do us a great service.
Obviously, as our homes back onto one of the busiest streets in all of St. Albert, we lose not only our touch of privacy but also our sound barrier from all the traffic. Let's take into account how much these trees protect our homes from the harsh weather elements such as sun, rain, snow, wind and whatever else Mother Nature throws our way. In the 20-plus years that I've lived here, I only recall one or two instances that resulted in loss of branches or snapping trees due to extreme winds.
Several people in our neighbourhood have packed up and moved elsewhere because of this, as many fear this could lower their chances of achieving the right buyer in the future once these trees are gone. Apparently the program was brought into fruition due to complaints from some residents, which is fine. However in my opinion, home owners should have had some sort of say if they wanted the trees that are adjacent their property line removed or not as they are the ones dealing with the sticky buds, the leaves etc.
The removal of these beautiful trees is extremely sad to see.
L. Weatherbee, St. Albert
