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Mar 23, 2022Liked by Ellie O'Byrne

The Elms that they cut down were not dead but had been living with dutch Elm disease since I've known the park, they were part of the landscape and ecology of the park. I understand that management takes tough decisions at times I just wonder why now and why every last tree in the valley. They were used as perches and were striking in all weathers, these elms being some of the tallest trees in the park the natural architecture of the skyline is radically altered, In summer their bare white branches framed the sky in magical ways, each summer the trees sprouted new growth at the base while their upper limbs remained white. I am concerned that there is a sudden interest in taming the Glen, since its industrial past this park has re-wilded itself with Alders and Willows, Oaks and Ash as well as Elders, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Hazels.... native trees that thrive here, there are some Birches and Sycamores and Mountain Ash, as well as planted Beech and Lime avenues and Cotoneasters and some lovely Laurel groves and Monterey and Swamp Cypruses.. the magic is in the mix and I would really like to see the Glen managed with a sensitivity which responds to the wildness ans well as the cultivated nature of the park. Each Cork Park has its own character and the Glen Park has huge heritage to offer the curious visitor. The Tree Officer will be a key player in the decisions of the next phase of the Glen "after the Elms" it would be good for him to consult with people who are familiar with the park and know something of its history and charms over time.

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