This pertains to the recent campus-wide email that was sent out Monday evening regarding the scheduled removal of 200+ eucalyptus surrounding the Sonoma State campus on East Cotati Ave. and Petaluma Hill Rd. The email states the project is funded by a grant from FEMA in regard to fire hazards.

Given the area has experienced frequent wildfires, fire safety is obviously a number one priority. While the university means well, removing these developed trees in an effort to reduce fire fuel is a drastic step that will do little for increasing the safety of students when there is a plethora of fields filled with dead foliage and brush around the university and Sonoma County.

These eucalyptuses are not sick. They are not precariously leaning or obstructing roadways. They are growing and existing as they always have been for many years. These trees provide shade, character, and a bit of a sound barrier for the campus residential areas. Following through with the decision to remove them will have irreversible effects, ones that will tarnish the beauty for which our campus is loved.