The plans for the redesign of the North Shore Open Space Park include taking out large swaths of the tree canopy. This canopy keeps the park pleasant throughout the year - even on the blazing hot days of summer. We ask the City of Miami Beach to preserve and protect this enormous asset, so that the people who treasure this park can continue to enjoy the park all day long, throughout the year. 

North Shore contains the last remaining Hardwood Hammock habitat on Miami Beach. As well, by breaking up the Hammock into smaller fragments, they will be creating edge effects and disturbance thereby encouraging the growth of more non-native invasive plants.

Although we understand that some trees are being taken out because they are invasive, those are not within the canopy. Although it is said that more trees will be planted, we do not think this justifies the widespread destruction of the incredible natural canopy that North Shore Open Space Park boasts. We also do not think security concerns justify destroying this asset.

In a climate like Miami Beach, shade is vital to being able to enjoy outdoor activities. Please preserve this shade.