Replanting

Today, while it saddens us to remove twelve Siberian elm trees from Fort Marcy Park—representing 3% of the tree cover—this step is necessary to ensure clear, safe access for everyone attending the 101st Zozobra. 
I want to sincerely thank everyone who expressed opposition. I know your position was motivated by a love for our environment and I respect that you made your voices heard. I also would like to thank the hundreds of people who reached out by email and text messages to support our safety decision. The voices we heard—both from those who supported the safety measures and those who advocated for the trees—reflect the passion and commitment that make this event so special to our community.
This action addresses long-standing safety concerns related to congestion during large gatherings dating back to 2017. With these changes, families, including those with young children, will now have safer, more accessible routes in case of an emergency.
Thanks to $200,000 we  secured in state funding, we will move forward with the planning process, August 21, at Ft. Marcy Gazebo, 5:30pm, for neighbors and stakeholders to plant trees and/or add shade structures in alternate locations within the park. A public meeting is scheduled for August 21, at Ft. Marcy Gazebo, 5:30pm to ensure the replanting plans reflect the community’s input. The reason we sought such a large sum was to provide the option of transplanting mature trees with irrigation, so park users would not have to wait for saplings to grow.
This is a step forward in balancing safety, tradition, and environmental care, ensuring Old Man Gloom can continue bringing our community together for years to come.
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The city of Santa Fe parks division’s first public Tree Replacement Meeting is scheduled for August 21, at Ft. Marcy Gazebo, 5:30pm.
Sign up below to receive the meeting date and updates.
🌱 Help Shape the Future of Fort Marcy Park
Join our the city community meeting  on Thursday, August 21 to share your ideas for replanting native trees and adding shade structures.

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✅ Be the first to know the date, time, and location
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✅ Have a voice in the replanting and design process