News

Infamous Fairmount Park tree to be cut down; blame climate change

The sugar maple tree on the Belmont Plateau will be removed in the coming weeks.

Another Philly landmark will soon be removed.

This time, we’re not talking about buildings. Instead, an iconic sugar maple tree will be cut down from the Belmont Plateau. Parks and Recreation said the tree is dying and has lost some of its bark, limbs, and foliage.

Maple trees can be tapped to collect sap for maple sugar and syrup, typically in February and March. However, these trees are at risk due to climate change. The trees need to go dormant in the winter to “recharge,” and the snowpack protects the tree’s roots. With warmer winters, there is less snowpack, which can lead to root damage and growth of the tree shoots.

The trees trunks and limbs will be milled into lumber in Fairmount Park. Three new black gum trees will be planted near the location of the maple on Arbor Day, April 29, 2022.

Cover photo by J. Fusco for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®


Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Compost network growing, rising temperatures, state energy plans, & more

Check out the latest sustainability news: Community Compost Network is expanding. Farm Philly, Parks and…

1 hour ago

Ocean City among NJ coastal towns affected by sea-level rise

Millions have been pledged to fight flooding in this local favorite shore town. Is it…

22 hours ago

How Louis Bartholomew supports greening efforts in Queen Village

Read about how our latest Civic Catalyst advocates for and supports greening efforts in Queen…

2 days ago

Climate action updates, EPA deregulation, new gardens, & more

Check out the latest sustainability news: Office of Sustainability releases 2025 Climate Action Update. OSS…

1 week ago

A bird-a-thon without birdwatching? For blind birders, it’s all about sound

From Malvern to Massachusetts, the first blind birding event showed accessibility in action. Chester County…

1 week ago

How Fishtown neighbors organized for a pedestrian safety win

More than 500 residents advocated for change, leading to 40% longer crosswalk times on Girard…

1 week ago