The tall gum trees lining Jose Burman Drive are becoming a cause for concern. Tall, straggly and prone to losing branches, they could pose a danger when the next strong winds arrive.
Motorists and their vehicles are potentially at risk, but of greater concern is the proximity of Hermanus High School. Falling branches could have devastating consequences for children, staff, and parents using the school drop-off and pick-up area.
It is encouraging to see that the school’s management has already had the tree at its back entrance cut back. But what about the remaining trees along the road?
There is another issue worth considering. Although gum trees create an attractive, leafy avenue, they are also notorious water guzzlers. At a time when water conservation should be a priority, is maintaining thirsty trees such as these the best use of this precious resource?
Perhaps the municipality could assess the condition of these trees and consider a long-term solution – including replacing those that pose a danger with suitable, less water-intensive indigenous trees.
We all appreciate the beauty and shade trees bring to our streets. But when public safety and water security are at stake, surely prevention is better than waiting for a disaster.
FROM: Anne – Westcliff
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