The beech trees planted here 100 years ago are aging out. These trees are subject to fungal diseases and a new “beech leaf” illness is threatening a catastrophic loss of our American beech trees on the East Coast.

Sadly, there is no cure for this disease or old age. Although we will trim some dying trees to provide habitats and food sources for our birds and other wildlife, we must also consider whether some of them are a hazard to humans.

The park is in the process of managing these legacy trees with respect and affection.