‘Senseless act’: 32 trees intentionally damaged in Niagara Falls

Thirty-two trees recently damaged along Niagara Falls’ Millennium Recreational Trail will cost more than $20,000 to replace, the city says. (City of Niagara Falls/photos)

A “significant act of vandalism” that recently occurred along Niagara Falls’ Millennium Recreational Trail will cost more than $20,000 to repair, the city says.

In a news release, the municipality said 32 trees were intentionally damaged.

James Sticca, the director of operations - Municipal Works for the City of Niagara Falls, Ont., said the affected section of the trail runs north of McLeod Road and south of Lundy’s Lane.

He added that the city was notified of the damage to a memorial tree on May 29, saying that staff discovered 32 trees snapped in half, one of which was a memorial tree, during a subsequent visit to the site.

Each tree replacement will cost taxpayers between $550 and $700, the city noted, and will “divert resources that could otherwise be invested in community services and improvements.”

Damaged trees to be removed, replaced

The municipality said staff have assessed the affected area and will now begin removing the damaged trees over the next one to two weeks “to ensure public safety and maintain the integrity of the trail.”

Memorial trees damaged by vandalism will be replanted as soon as possible, while the remaining ones will be replaced this fall, it said.

“We understand how meaningful these trees are to residents, particularly those planted in memory of loved ones,” Mayor Jim Diodati said in a news release.

“We share the community’s disappointment over this senseless act and are committed to restoring the area as quickly as possible.”

Fall tree planting planned

The city noted that at the suggestion of Coun. Victor Pietrangelo, community partner Ontario Power Generation (OPG) will be redirecting a planned fall tree-planting initiative to the section of the Millennium Recreational Trail affected by the vandalism. In partnership with the City’s Environmental Action Committee, OPG will sponsor the planting of approximately 40 to 50 native trees this September, representing an investment of around $7,000, the City of Niagara said.

“Originally planned for another area of the trail system, the initiative will now support the restoration of the damaged site and help renew this important community space,” it said.

“The City would like to thank residents who have reached out with concerns and offers of support.”

Anyone who witnesses vandalism is urged to report it immediately: Call 9-1-1 if an incident is in progress or Niagara Regional Police Service’s non-emergency line at 905-688-4111 for those that have already happened.

“The City of Niagara Falls remains committed to protecting and enhancing its urban forest and public spaces and appreciates the community’s assistance in safeguarding these shared assets,” the City of Niagara Falls said.