Fw: Tree in Corroboree Park - response from TAMS

[Ian Fraser <>]

For what it's worth, one of the leading independent experts advising on the process is someone I know very well indeed, and have worked with for a couple of decades. He is not only an unchallenged expert on tree health, but has done more for conservation at a practical 'on ground' level than most of us could ever claim to have done, including fighting to save numerous remnant woodland trees in Canberra and beyond. It was he who alerted the Commissioner and TAMS to the presence of the hobbies' nest and the need for a delay.

Nonetheless the entire inside of the tree was rotted out - which of course makes for great nesting hollows!

While any tree loss is regrettable, let's keep this one in perspective. It is a planted tree, not native to the immediate area (locally it is indigenous to the streamlines and sheltered gullies of the Brindabellas and Tidbinbillas). With respect we might be doing more for conservation if we were to focus more on the many pre-European trees under threat in suburbia both current and planned.

I trust this doesn't lose me any friends, or cause anyone to mistake me for someone who doesn't care passionately (and actively) about trees, birds and biodiversity in general.

Have a relaxing and birdsome end of 2009 and entry to 2010 all!

cheers

Ian

Wendy Whitham wrote:

I emailed TAMS this morning to express concern about the tree pruning.  I asked whether expert advice had been sought in relation to the nesting birds and also what qualifications the various "experts" had.

 

Here's the response I received for what it's worth.

 

Wendy

 

----- Original Message -----

From: m("act.gov.au","Fleur.Flanery");">Flanery, Fleur

To: m("optusnet.com.au","wendysw");">

Sent: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 2:36 PM

Subject: Tree in Corroboree Park

Wendy

I too share your disappointment about the extensive pruning of the tree in Corroboree Park. Four independent condition assessments on the tree however, classified it as hazardous. Given its condition, height and location it was necessary to remove the hazardous sections.  Provision was made for the Gang, Gang nest. On close inspection from the travel tower no nest could be located for the Australian Hobby. Attached is information that about the tree condition assessment and removal process that was provided to residents adjacent to the Park.

Fleur Flanery <<Corroboree Park Lbox 1209.doc>> <<Corroboree Tree notification.doc>>

Manager

Canberra's Urban Forest Renewal Program

Tel 02 6205 5263

Mob 0434 655 034

 

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Ian Fraser, m("pcug.org.au","ianf");">
Environment Tours; Vertego Environmental Consultancy
GPO Box 3268, Canberra, ACT 2601
ph: 61 2 6249 1560  
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