GEORGE NEWS - Some residents of Kraaibosch Estate and Kraaibosch Manor are highly upset about what they deem the ‘indiscriminate’ way in which about 35 yellowwood trees, which grow on communal ground in these estates, were pruned last week.
Pruning a yellowwood tree requires a permit from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), which in this case had apparently not been obtained.
According to information received, about 50 trees in total were pruned, which include some waterberry trees, which are not protected. However, this was not confirmed by the estate.
A local environmental consultant, Corné Brink of Kaëlvoet Consulting, was on the premises in response to these complaints that were received. She said they found some of the trees’ branches had been cut off into the trunk’s bark. This impacts a tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients, and therefore its ability to grow and flourish.
“In some cases where big branches were sawn off, the branches tore off because of an incorrect technique. You first have to make a small cut on the underside of the branch before sawing from the top. This prevents tearing, which can lead to bacterial and fungal infection. A sealant that prevents infection also has to be applied immediately after pruning, and this was not done.
“The person who did the pruning said he did not know what tree species he was working with, or that a permit was needed for the yellowwoods,” said Brink.
She said most of the yellowwoods should not have been pruned as they are still small. “The canopy of a tree should cover about the same area as the root system. In these young trees’ case, it was not necessary to trim them as their root systems are still small. This pruning event will significantly hamper the their growth and recovery.”
Yellowwoods in forests grow closely together and under a tree canopy, so they are already in challenging conditions when planted in an urban environment where they are far apart and in full sun.
Upon enquiry, Owen O’Reilly, estate manager for Kraaibosch, confirmed they had started with their tree-pruning programme on Tuesday 8 July, in accordance with their approved gardens strategy. “Following comments received from some residents, pruning was suspended until the matter is resolved.”
He said they are currently awaiting confirmation from a representative of the DFFE to complete a site inspection.
“Following this, we will have a clear understanding of the extent of the issue and will engage with our residents regarding the matter at hand and the way forward. We are committed to resolving this matter in a transparent and responsible manner.”
George Herald is awaiting comment from the DFFE.
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