This is to inform you that, following the recommendations of a horticultural expert, we will be felling a number of trees that are sick (or dead) and pose a risk to the public on the Old Port of Montréal site. This operation will take place over two phases. The trees in question have already been identified with posted notices.
This decision to cut these trees down is part of our site-wide tree management strategy which aims to replace sick/dead trees, ensure the longevity of the site’s stock of trees, and increase biodiversity on the Old Port site. As new trees are planted and old trees replaced, we carefully and responsibly choose tree species to help ensure the longevity of the Old Port site’s stock of trees in keeping with the site’s environment while at the same time staying mindful of climate change.
Removal of these trees will take place over two phases, and notices will be posted in advance on the trees in question.
• Phase 1 will be deployed to reflect a change in strategy relating to the ground vegetation along Rue de la Commune Ouest. Given the nearby vehicle traffic, the limited clearance between the bike lane and the road, and the use of road salt in the winter, six maple trees located between Rue McGill and the bike-lane side of King Edward Quay must necessarily be cut down almost immediately. These trees will not be replaced as a new line of trees was previously planted between the bike path and the linear park.
• This change in strategy aligns with plans to replace a hedge that was in ill health with a mix of shrubs and trees. Nearly 90 trees along the edge of the bike path have already been planted on the side of the linear park.
• As part of our initiative to regreen and redesign the landscaping of the Old Port site, initiated in 2019, 106 trees have been planted. This aligns with any eventual need to cut more trees due to illness or risk of breakage.
• We are working with the City of Montréal and, to wit, 16 honey-locust trees were planted in 2021 along Rue de la Commune, followed by 10 elm trees in 2023 in the same location.
• Phase 2 will involve the felling of 20 Lombardy poplars currently located on the south side of Clock Tower Quay. These will be immediately replaced with 39 trees from three different species: fastigiate English oak, Princeton Sentry Ginkgo, and Prairie Sentinel Hackberry. These replacements will take place over the fall and the new trees will be planted no more than two days after the poplars are felled.
• This mix of three tree species offers a number of advantages, including limiting the risk of infection between trees, better wind resistance, minimizing compaction of the root system thanks to vertical growth, and improved resistance to salt used to de-ice and keep pedestrian surfaces safe for visitors.
• These new trees will be planted in keeping with the original landscaping, designed to echo the form of the hanger historically located on Clock Tower Quay.
Eventually, and despite their healthy appearance, other trees will have to be felled as a number of them are relatively blighted. We will be sure to share complete details with you about to these forthcoming operations.
Rest assured that the Old Port is committed to performing this work on its site with all due diligence and in keeping with best horticultural and sustainable development practices.
We appreciate your understanding.