Tree Removal Project at Park Headquarters and History Center

National Park Service Press Release
(Calumet)

The National Park Service would like to notify the public about a project to remove several mature cedar trees from the Keweenaw National Historical Park headquarters area this week.

One tree at headquarters will be removed. It is located on the northeast corner of the headquarters building near the east entrance, facing Calumet Avenue. Approximately 12 trees will be removed from the east, south, and west sides of the Keweenaw History Center (former C&H Library).

This work is consistent with the landscape treatment approved in the Calumet Unit Cultural Landscape Report and Environmental Assessment (2013), a publically reviewed report which provides a history of the landscape, analyzes how physical conditions have changed over time, and identifies ways to return the landscape to its historic appearance while accommodating modern uses. According to the National Register of Historic Places, the list of the nation’s most significant historic properties, the period of significance for the headquarters complex ends in 1930. The cedar trees were planted after this date, and thus do not represent the landscape associated with the most significant historical period.

In addition, tree removal will benefit the buildings’ unique exterior masonry. At the former Library, the trees were planted close to the foundation, and increase humidity and moisture next to the building. This encourages the moss and mildew growth, which damage masonry. Tree removal will improve the masonry condition and provide better access for masonry repairs scheduled next summer.

For further information about this project, please contact Steve DeLong, park landscape architect, at 906-483-3022 or steve_delong@nps.gov.