PEORIA -- Bradley University employees are gathering signatures on a petition to save a large and lovely copper beech tree from bulldozers.
The ancient tree, at 815 N. Glenwood, stands in the path of a new $30 million recreation center.
Bradley officials recently told Peoria Journal Star columnist Terry Bibo that the tree will come down, but promised to plant more trees to take its place.
That's not good enough for Sharon Obery, who works in the Bradley University Library where the petition can be signed. "It's unusual and beautiful," she said of the huge tree.
She and others are encouraging people to sign the petition soon.
"We're concerned that it's urgent. We're not sure if it will do any good but we wanted to try," she said.
Those who cannot visit the library when it reopens after Memorial Day can send her an email at [email protected] and ask that their names be added to the list, she said.
Environmental activist Dave Pittman stated in an email that he has advised Bradley officials "this tree could become a powerful symbol of BU's commitment to historic preservation and environmental sensitivity.
"It is technically feasible to save this tree without moving the building foundation. The idea of planting replacement trees is insulting. Imagine replacing your great great grandmother with a handful of sperm and eggs. "
Pittman continued, "get out of your car. Walk to the tree. Put your hands, both hands on its trunk. Look at its scars, and thousands of lovely leaves. Feel its history, herstory, the thousands of students who have stood underneath it.
"This is a witness tree, a centurion, a symbol of something special.
"This tree can be saved for many years, if Bradley cares enough to spend the money and protect the remaining roots.
"This tree can be a centerpiece of the entrance way, a small oasis of green and a testimony to those who love the things that grow.
"We are motivated by what we can feel, and thus love for the environment encapsulates, shrinks into moments of awareness, of joy, and of pain. As we give to this tree we will receive from the effort a renewed commitment."
-- Elaine Hopkins
Email comments for future updates on this tree.
Comments