May 17, 2008

I thought the city was going to preserve and beautify the Pioneer Cemetery in Pleasanton? I live next to it on San Carlos Way, and I am shocked and saddened that work crews have spent the past few days cutting down a line of 70 foot tall eucalyptus trees on the south side of the property. I fear a majestic 80-foot-tall eucalyptus tree adjacent to my home, near the east side of the cemetery will be the next to go.

I've lived here for 19 years and know that these trees were habitat for hundreds of birds. Mockingbirds and yellow-billed magpies find a home here. The tree near my house is a rookery for at least 25 turkey vultures.

I realize that turkey vultures may not be popular birds, but I’ve watched this flock survive many seasons in that tree. I've seen them hunker down in violent storms and struggle to return to their roost in heavy winds.

They are superb gliders in fair weather, and are an inseparable part of the environment along the Pleasanton ridge.

Great white herons sometimes rest in this eucalyptus tree, too, along with many types of birds and small mammals.

Removing the trees along the south side of the property was a shame. Their removal served no purpose. It definitely could not be called beautification. Please contact the Mayor Hosterman and the city council to make sure the remaining trees are left alone.

Thanks, James Brice