A row of towering Lombardy poplar trees in Sidney is facing the axe as part of the ongoing Calvin Lane path project.
The initial felling of the first tree on July 24 caught a nearby resident by surprise, prompting concerns about the loss of trees that have drawn criticism from Sidney residents in recent years.
In 2021, the removal of an 18-metre Monterey cypress tree on Second Street ignited outrage from residents.
In 2022, residents voiced their disapproval of the potential loss of multiple trees, including a protected Douglas fir, for a multi-residential development.
Even the felling of two giant sequoias on Mills Road in 2024, justified by their classification as "foreign species" unsuitable for urban environments, sparked debate.
More recently, concerns have been raised about a permit application to remove one of three Monterey cypress trees to make way for development on Third Street.
The current removal of the poplar trees is partly attributed to the Bowerbank Road neighbourhood bikeway project, which has divided the community since preliminary designs were unveiled in 2023.
Construction on the Calvin Avenue path commenced in June and paving is currently underway.
According to a spokesperson from the Town of Sidney, the municipality had initially attempted to retain the trees within the path. However, changes to the lighting design ultimately made it impossible to preserve the Lombardy poplar trees along the corridor.
The seven poplars, measuring at least 40 metres in height, have also provided shade to residents along Piercy Avenue for many years. However, they have also been a source of concern due to their invasive root systems.
Peninsula News Review visited the site and was informed by the crew that the poplars were nearing the end of their lifespan, which typically ranges from 30 to 50 years, contributing to the decision for their removal.
Furthermore, the trees' shallow, horizontally spreading root systems, which can extend as far as the tree's height, have caused infrastructure issues for some residents.
These roots can lift sidewalks, paving stones, retaining walls and driveways.
Ironically, some residents who have suffered from the trees' invasive roots are relieved by their removal.
Homeowners residing directly behind one of the trees on Piercy Avenue told PNR, "Lombardy poplars are beautiful to watch in the wind, but they have caused some issues within our property."
They revealed the roots damaged their drains two years ago, causing a basement flood and requiring extensive repairs.
They also pointed out a large crack in their concrete floor, stretching from their main house to their backyard suite, directly aligning with the poplar tree's location. Their bedroom floor has also become uneven due to the encroaching roots.
The homeowners said they previously requested the town to remove the tree, but were told it can't be done due to a bylaw protecting older trees.
Sidney’s Tree Preservation Bylaw 2138 regulates the cutting, pruning and removal of trees and sets requirements for replacing protected trees.
Under the bylaw, Lombardy poplar trees are not designated as “protected species.”
"When they approached us a few weeks ago saying they’re cutting the tree down, we said, thank you," they exclaimed.
The owner of a house directly across from the first felled poplar expressed sadness, noting the shade the tree provided for many years. However, she also acknowledged the problem of invasive suckers spreading extensively in their backyard, making them difficult to remove.
The town confirmed replacement trees of a more suitable species will be planted.
Three of the seven poplar trees have already been cut down, with the remaining four slated for removal next week.
