This afternoon, the City of Thousand Oaks received a final report from its third separate certified arborist about the old oak tree at the corner of Westlake Blvd. and Triunfo Canyon. The arborist determined that the tree is in imminent danger of falling. Given the public safety issue, the City of Thousand Oaks (which governs this portion of Westlake Village) has ordered the immediate removal of the tree.
Crews will be removing the tree tomorrow morning (Thursday) beginning at 8:30am.
Because of the tree’s heritage, age and meaning to the community, the City has gone beyond its normal steps for a situation like this. This report is from the third certified arborist and the report is not by the City, but private experts. After examinations including core samples, it’s clear to the arborists involved that it’s not a matter of if, but when, it will fall. The tree has been sick for quite some time, and under constant monitoring for years.
The experts have determined that when it falls, 10,000-12,000 pounds of wood will drop and it will drop not in pieces, but straight down on the below roadway. Because of the proximity to the public including cars, pedestrians, etc…, the situation is far different than if the tree were in an open field. With its location, it has the potential to badly hurt if not kill someone.
Those with additional questions can contact the City of Thousand Oaks at (805) 449-2100.