Grace the Giant Sequoia

KILLED!

Tree-limbing began on May 14 and total destruction was a day or two later. Developer Dan Gillison of HCS Construction and the homeowner, Ronald Baer, refused to spare the tree, even though discussions to move the tree were underway.

Active birds’ nests were in the tree but that didn’t stop the chop either.

Many supporters were there, including one who was arrested.

This beautiful Giant Sequoia was located right in the heart of the Green Lake neighborhood, just a block from the park. It stood over 100 feet tall and five feet wide. Moving it to the park could have preserved in for all to enjoy for hundreds more years.

several baby crows
This nest of birds was retrieved from the tree and taken to Sarvey Wildlife Center

The fight isn’t over

Watercolor portrait of Grace the giant sequoia

Too many trees in Seattle are being cut down for development. Trees and housing can coexist, but the Seattle Tree Ordinance is broken, favoring developers over sensible canopy management. Take action now and make good trouble. Help keep the Emerald City green!

The story

Located at 5834 Woodlawn Ave N

This “Heritage-quality” tree was just one block from Green Lake.

The Giant Sequoia was the defining feature of this property. Trees like this one are well suited to our environment and sequester more carbon than any other species. There are fewer than 200 sequoias on private property in Seattle.

Discussions were underway with EDI, a tree-moving company and Seattle Parks and Recreation to relocate the tree to Green Lake Park. EDI has successfully moved a sequoia of similar size in Boise ID. A delay in chopping would have allowed for a complete feasibility study.

New home proposal

A new owner has decided to destroy this amazing “heritage tree” in Seattle–one of the few left in the area. Simple design changes could have allowed for the tree to be saved. This single family home will be more than 3,330 square feet.

Proposed Construction

The new construction proposed takes no account of this grand dame and ushers it and other large trees on the property to be destroyed unnecessarily. 

Images Courtesy: Tree Action Seattle

Alternative Proposal

Tree Action Seattle, a local environmental group has consulted with an architect to propose modest modifications to the design that would retain the Giant Sequoia, many of the other large conifers, while retaining the living space of the home and enclosed parking.

What do the neighbors say?

  • I personally see the falcon who perches in this tree regularly and we have seen bald eagles land in this tree. When Woodland Park Zoo’s falcon went missing from their flight learning experience, this is the tree where he was safely located. There is no denying how many birds and countless other creatures use this tree.
    – Neighbor
  • For over 40 years, I have strolled by this magnificent tree that is an anchor in our neighborhood. It is unique, beautiful and historic. To remove it would be to remove a landmark that preceded colonization of this area. It can never be replaced. Please work to find a solution that works for all.
    – Neighbor
  • My daughter’s bedroom looks out onto those beautiful trees and she is able to see owls in the early mornings. They make such a big positive impact on the neighborhood, it would really be such a loss for them to be cut down.
    – Neighbor
  • That tree is home to so many beautiful birds and other animals. We love watching it from our front window all seasons of the year. With climate change you can’t ignore the fact that this huge tree helps remove so much carbon from the atmosphere. Please don’t let it be removed for a driveway.
    – Neighbor
  • I’m concerned by this action and the direction we’re taking. These trees are a part of our history, natural landscape, and are a reminder of our beautiful city and region. The plan to tear it down even though there is a way to preserve the tree on the property…doesn’t align with our values as a city.
    – Neighbor

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