Friday, Aug 18, 2006
(FLAT ROCK, NC)--Frequent visitors to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site are undoubtedly familiar with the huge white oak tree that stands as a sentinel guarding the historic Connemara farm center. A favorite tree of Carl Sandburg, this old tree with spreading boughs appears in a number of the Sandburg’s historic family photos.
Unfortunately, this landmark tree is dying and presents a safety hazard due to its location and size. For several years the oak has experienced increasing dieback, and this year only half its branches flushed with new spring growth. Leaves that came out this spring are now turning brown and withering. After a decade of gradual decline and weakening, the oak borer beetles and carpenter ants have now claimed the struggling tree.
In the interest of visitor and staff safety, the dead oak will be removed by a local professional tree service. Due to the size of the tree and its location near historic structures, the removal will require the use of a crane. During removal activities the main walkway to the barn area will be blocked, but pedestrian traffic will be guided to use a safe, alternate route to access the barn area.
The park plans to replace the tree with another white oak in the same location.
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is located three miles south of Hendersonville off U.S. 225 on Little River Road. The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., daily, except Christmas Day. Scheduled guided tours of the home cost $5.00 each for adults and are free for those age 16 and under. The grounds are free of charge with hiking trails, a goat barn, picnic area and bookstore. For further information, please telephone 828-693-4178, or visit our website at www.nps.gov/carl.
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