Citizens Protest Tree Destruction for Donaldson Run Stream “Restoration” in Zachary Taylor Park

Private development continues decimating Arlington’s tree canopy, but your County government can act to reject the needless slaughter of more than 80 trees and preserve irreplaceable trees on public land. Our green spaces are key infrastructure assets that provide cleaner water, improved air quality, better health, increased property values, and enjoyable surroundings. More than 30 citizens demonstrated and marched in the rain to make their revulsion clear.

Arlington County should use the latest sustainable methods that preserve our public trees while still addressing erosion. Nationally recognized experts have documented alternative design approaches that require less bulldozing and tree removal, cost less, and offer better resilience to future storm events than the County’s plan. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation strongly supports preserving trees along waterways as natural means to control runoff and preserve water quality. Citizens in Alexandria, Fairfax and Montgomery Counties are also demonstrating for modifications to similar projects that endanger their natural areas.

ATAG intends to continue to raise strong objections to these types of projects (such as the plans for Gulf Branch Park), but we need your voice to amplify these concerns well before the plans are made. Make democracy work for you in Arlington! Email the County Board at board@arlingtonva.us.