Letter to the Editor RE: Tree Removal at Perry Hall Elementary School

Dear Editor,

I have been contacted by several constituents regarding the recent removal of several trees on the Perry Hall Elementary School Campus. I immediately contacted Baltimore County Public Schools for a reason as to why these trees were removed. The explanation I received is as follows:

School staff notified the Department of Physical Facilities of an ongoing problem regarding erosion of the slope on the Perry Hall Elementary School property last summer. For several years, the Grounds crew has attempted to control the slope erosion by filling the ditches with rip-rap (large stone); this has been effective in other cases but not this time.

Since the existing trees and stone were not controlling erosion, they will be removed as weather permits; then, new soil and topsoil will be added to fill the ditches. This same area will then be seeded and covered with erosion control matting to stabilize the slope. After the slope work is completed, which should be this spring; the Office of Grounds has a plan to install new trees above the slope to replace the pines taken out. The new trees will be selected by size and type so as not to negatively impact the area when mature. This entire work plan was reviewed by the school administration and the Recreation and Parks maintenance staff prior to any work beginning.

I appreciate the quick response of Baltimore County Public Schools on this issue.

Senator Katherine Klausmeier
8th Legislative District