Under the current “park revitalization,” the city of Dana Point is planning to chop down over 70 mature trees in Lantern Bay Park - 45 Torrey pines (native to SoCal, rare), as well as 31 stone pines, known for their umbrella canopies. In the midst of this heatwave, it's hard to imagine removing these majestic trees when we need their shade and beauty more than ever. Not to mention that these trees make up the iconic vista Dana Point is known for.

Based on this proposal from the October 6 council meeting, an arborist only recommended removing two of the 45 Torrey pines. Yet the proposed plan would remove the entire grove - as well as the stone pines which are very healthy. The plan states, "The removal of the grove is proposed for design reasons rather than tree health." It seems likely that the trees are being sacrificed for more open sight lines and additional event space for the hotel – since this redesign will be entirely funded by the Marriott (but the city is responsible for maintaining it).

The residents don't want this.

According to the survey (found on pages 34-38 of the proposal), 71% of the residents said they want to keep it as is or add MORE trees. An additional 143 residents wrote to the city council before the meeting on October 6 to speak out against the removal of these trees. For many of us, the trees are the heartbeat of the park. Proposals, yoga, pickup games, birthday parties, piñatas, gender reveals, quiet afternoon picnics: so many memories have been made in the shade of these trees. 

This is a hasty decision. 

The city wants to act immediately because of the Marriott's construction schedule. The harbor had to do extensive biological assessments prior to construction. To date, there has been no mention of any biological assessments regarding the removal of these trees. 

Additionally, the city was provided with just one proposed plan from the hotel, and its goals don't align with those of the residents. A sub-committee (Council members Pagnano and Frost) are now looking into an alternative; let's make sure they know we want to keep the trees.

The trees help our fight against climate change.

-These trees serve as habitats for many local wildlife species. Wintering monarchs use these groves during migrations and raptors and other birds roost in its canopies.

-They provide oxygen and clean the air.

-They provide much needed shade, especially in a time when we are seeing temperatures soar, reducing the heat island effect in urban areas.

-As El Niño approaches, the trees' deep root systems prevent mudslides and stabilize coastal bluffs. Their roots act like "rebar" in the hillside, holding the soil together when heavy rain hits.

- Large, old trees sequester massive amounts of carbon. Cutting them down releases that stored carbon back into the atmosphere, accelerating climate change in a way that young seedlings cannot undo. 

Great horned owl at Lantern Bay Park, photo credit to Kathy Brillheart

Our parks are for the people - and they should not be controlled by corporate interests.

Show our city and council members that we want a more thorough review of this park.  By signing this petition, you're telling the city to slow down and listen to the feedback from the residents.  No one is against all improvements at the park. But the proposed plan is rushed, and it lacks the depth and research a well-planned park deserves. 

Let's make a sound, clear decision and protect our trees. 

Sign now to save the trees at Lantern Bay Park.