Campus tree work to continue Sunday, Dec. 29

OLYMPIA — Work to complete pruning on two longstanding Norway maples on Capitol Campus will occur on Sunday, Dec. 29. Previous work occurred Sunday, Dec. 22.

One tree that will be pruned is near the sunken garden, and one is by Capitol Way between the Tivoli Fountain and the south diagonal. Work will begin at 7:30 a.m.

The approximately 100-year-old maples have health issues but they are manageable for now. The maples are significantly larger and older than average trees on campus—and branch weight needs to be reduced to extend the trees’ safe, useful life.

The Washington State Department of Enterprise Services has contracted with Treewalker of Olympia for the service. During the pruning, there will be noise from chainsaws and tree chippers. Also, parking spaces will be cordoned off on the north and south diagonals, and some sidewalks will be closed.

DES worked with the Department of Natural Resources and Tree Solutions, a certified consulting arborist firm from Seattle, to develop the management plan for the trees.

Maps and additional information are available online.