A significant number of trees will be removed from the east side of 52 Avenue between 41 Street and 42 Street, adjacent to the Town-owned sports fields.

Some trees along 42 Street near the Innisfail Historical Village have already been removed. Replacement tree planting in this area using varieties more suitable to the location will commence in mid- to late-May. Plans to replace trees along 52 Avenue will be reviewed at a later date.

“Our primary concern is for people’s safety,” said Steven Kennedy, director of operational services for the Town of Innisfail. “Activity in the area along 52 Avenue is increasing and we don’t want to put our residents or visitors at risk.”

Many of the trees along this route show signs of advanced decay, which has weakened their structural integrity. Their proximity to power lines that run parallel to 52 Avenue also creates a substantial hazard, especially during extreme weather events.

A tree risk assessment was conducted in 2018 by an independent consultant. The report, prepared by ForTrees of Didsbury, Alberta, stated that “Repeated crown reduction necessitated by the utility clearance has left many stems very weak and top heavy, greatly increasing their chances of stem failure, especially during storm events.” The assessment also noted that “Many trees’ structural safety is compromised due to incipient decay caused by repeated powerline crown reduction trimming.”

Tree removal along 52 Avenue will start this week.