Letters: Let me help save Richmond's trees please

Dear Editor,

While walking around town, I noticed some trees struggling with the hot weather. Some of them seem to be dying.

I was disappointed to see a young Douglas fir in Steveston with a sign that said it was going to be cut down because it was dead.

In Burnaby, they use treegator bags to ensure their trees get enough water.

The grass is yellow in some places, conditions expected at the end of the summer not the beginning. I am worried that some trees (which make our neighbourhoods look beautiful and help in the fight against climate change) may not survive another hot summer.

Our unpredictable weather is hurting our trees who take their cues from temperature and amount of daylight.

I’m proud to live in a city that takes the environment seriously and has wonderful landscapers working hard in our parks.

I sent an email to the city asking how they will help our trees survive and thrive, but they haven’t replied. In that time, several more trees were cut down in Richmond Centre and Steveston.

I realize the city is very busy. Perhaps they can start a program where people can contribute to caring for trees (especially the ones that are on their property) like some cities already do for their roads.

Lexy Clayburn

Richmond