Protect the Trees and Wildlife of Greenway Park!

As a deeply concerned citizen and advocate for nature, I am passionate about preserving the lush greenery and natural beauty of Tustin’s Greenway Park. Our trees provide numerous ecological benefits and serve as a vital sanctuary for bird species that are already facing population declines due to habitat loss and deforestation.

Why These Trees Are at Risk

The HOA is considering the removal of trees along the wall in Greenway Park, citing concerns about pavement damage and liability risks following the fall of a single tree elsewhere in the park. However, an arborist’s assessment has found no conclusive evidence to support the need for widespread tree removal.

What the Arborist Found

1. The fallen tree was not located along the wall, and its failure was due to soil conditions and weather—not poor tree health. The site where this tree fell has different soil conditions than the area where the trees are now targeted for removal. There is no reason to assume that all trees pose a similar risk.

2. There are no signs of tree roots significantly damaging the pavement. When tree roots cause pavement damage, they typically lift and displace the surface, rather than just causing cracks. The minor pavement wear in Greenway Park appears to be a natural result of aging and soil conditions, not tree roots.

3. Tree debris and bird droppings are not valid reasons for removal. Trees naturally shed leaves, pine cones, and needles, and birds are part of any thriving environment. These normal occurrences should not justify the destruction of valuable community trees.

Why Trees Matter

• Vital Bird Habitat – Bird populations are in severe decline due to habitat loss, deforestation, and climate change. The State of the Birds Report (2025) warns that billions of birds have been lost in recent decades. These trees provide crucial nesting and sheltering areas.

https://www.stateofthebirds.org/2025/

• Environmental Benefits – Trees improve air quality, reduce heat, absorb rainwater, and prevent erosion. Their removal would negatively impact both local wildlife and the overall well-being of our community.

• A Costly & Unnecessary Decision – Removing healthy trees can be expensive for the HOA and does not guarantee a safer environment. Responsible tree management, rather than removal, is a better long-term solution.

Protecting Wildlife During Tree Care

If the HOA proceeds with any tree work, it is essential that they follow Best Management Practices (BMPs) to protect nesting birds and other wildlife. According to Tree Care for Birds (treecareforbirds.com), responsible tree management includes:

✔ Conducting pre-work bird surveys to identify active nests.

✔ Avoiding tree removal and trimming during nesting season (generally February–August).

✔ Training tree care crews to follow bird-safe pruning and removal methods to minimize harm.

✔ Consulting with qualified professionals to ensure compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).

A Call to Action

Preserving the natural environment should be a shared responsibility. While public safety is important, we must not rush to remove trees without solid evidence or consideration of alternatives.

We urge the HOA to:

• Reconsider tree removal and explore less destructive solutions.

• Ensure their tree care contractors follow BMPs and comply with the MBTA.

• Listen to the voices of community members who support conservation.

Your voice matters! Sign this petition to show the HOA that Greenway Park’s trees and wildlife deserve protection. Let’s work together to find a balanced approach that prioritizes both public safety and the preservation of our natural environment.