Boise State to Remove Three Quad Trees During Holiday Break
Arborists say age and construction stress caused the decline, with new plantings scheduled for spring.
By Justin Brooks ·
Boise State University will remove three trees from the central Quad this Thanksgiving break. The Landscape Services Team identified the specimens as unhealthy and beyond recovery. The removal aims to prevent falling limbs before winter weather arrives.
Campus experts evaluated the trees against several criteria before recommending removal. The assessment included overall health, structural stability, and risk to nearby people and infrastructure. Specialists also checked for pests, disease, and long-term viability.
University officials cited three factors contributing to the decline. The trees are old, regional conditions have been stressful, and recent steam tunnel work added additional strain. The process involves consultation with arborists certified by the International Society of Arboriculture.
New trees will replace the removed ones in the spring. The planting season aligns with conditions that best support new growth. Selections will account for Boise’s climate, soil, and water requirements. The goal is to maintain species diversity and proper spacing.
Boise State manages a total of 2,177 trees across its campus. These plants represent 147 different species. The university holds certification as a Tree Campus for Higher Education from the Arbor Day Foundation. Service-learning students currently monitor the health and growth of the existing canopy.
