Concerning Tree Removal Near Madrone Canyon

A series of recent communications between residents and city staff members, myself included, has resulted in an inaccurate story that PG&E recently cut down a redwood tree on City property near the entrance to Madrone Canyon. I apologize that this misinformation has circulated and caused much concern for residents. We are working internally on our communication practices and procedures to avoid a repetition of this event.

The City of Larkspur contracts with certified arborists to conduct inspections of trees on City property. A recent examination of 275 public trees in and near Madrone Canyon was conducted by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist from Urban Forestry Associates, Inc.. The arborists' report identified eight trees in and around Dolliver Park that should be removed due to risk that they might fall, drop limbs, or otherwise cause harm or damage. Of these eight trees, one was a redwood tree in the public right-of-way across the street from the park. The other trees were not redwood trees.

The redwood tree in question was one shoot growing from a larger, rotting root system/stump where a number of prior shoots have been removed over the years. The arborist noted that while the trunk of the tree was in good condition, "the base of the trunk is decayed and there are a number of dead roots." The arborist recommended that the whole tree be removed as soon as possible.

The City contracted with a tree service for the removal of the eight trees at risk. The tree service placed a sign on an a-frame in Dolliver Park in advance of the tree removals to inform people that the removals would take place. In the future, City staff will make certain there is more signage - including signage at each of the trees designated for removal - before tree cutting occurs. We also will begin posting information on our website whenever we determine that we must remove a redwood tree from City property.

City staff conducted an inspection of Madrone Canyon on Thursday, September 19, 2024, and found no evidence that any other redwood tree on City property was recently removed.

To the best of our staff's knowledge, PG&E has never removed a tree from City property without first notifying the City of its intent.

We recognize that redwood trees are integral to the character of Larkspur and we take seriously our responsibility as stewards of the trees on City property. We will improve our communication practices when a threat to health and safety necessitates the removal of a redwood tree.

Again, I am sorry that this misinformation circulated.

Dan Schwarz

City Manager

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