Shasta College has initiated plans to remove 24 mature, well-established native oaks and other trees from its campus. These trees are a vital part of the local ecosystem and contribute significantly to the beauty and environmental health of the college grounds. In their place, it is proposed to install concrete features and non-native tree saplings that will not only require significantly more water but will also demand higher maintenance resources. This shift not only undermines the efforts towards sustainability but also disregards the heritage and natural tranquility these native trees provide.

Alarmingly, these plans were initiated without any consideration of the Landscape Committee, or any consultation with the general student body, who are directly affected by these changes. The lack of transparency and exclusion of important stakeholder voices in making such impactful decisions is a disservice to both the Shasta College community and its environment. This is the community's college, and as such the community must have a voice in these decisions. 

Establishing non-native tree saplings and artificial structures makes the campus more prone to heat island effects, negatively impacts carbon sequestration efforts, and reduces biodiversity—issues that are particularly pressing given the increasing climate challenges in California. The existing native oaks have adapted over years, offering minimal water consumption and providing habitats for local wildlife.

We urge Shasta College to reconsider these plans. Instead of removing these trees, alternative strategies could be explored—such as incorporating natural landscaping designs that enhance and integrate the established native trees and improve campus facilities. Genuine engagement with students, educators, and environmental experts can yield innovative approaches that respect the natural beauty and sustainability goals of the college.

If you value the preservation of our native greenery and wish to promote a sustainable future for Shasta College, please sign this petition. Together, we can advocate for a better approach that does not sacrifice our environmental heritage.