Historic and Protected Tree to be Axed by Tumwater City Council Memorial Day Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                 May 24, 2024

Historic and Protected Tree to be Axed by Tumwater City Council Memorial Day Weekend

Part of Washington’s history is about to be irrevocably destroyed the weekend of May 24th. The Davis Meeker Garry Oak in Tumwater, Wash. is 400 years old and is a significant landmark on a trail dating back thousands of years. The white oak is also a state-protected tree species and a historic listed tree. The City of Tumwater intends to cut it down very soon.

Yellow Ribbon Event on Saturday, May 25, 4pm

Save the Davis-Meeker Garry Oak (SDMGO) has organized arborists, historians, naturalists and citizens from around the region to prevent the city’s imminent action. Assuming the oak is still standing by then, they will hold a yellow-ribbon tying event at the tree on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 4pm, Capitol Blvd SE and Almar Lane SE.  It will be a friendly, non-violent show of presence and support for the Davis Meeker Oak. Attendees are encouraged to bring yellow ribbons, signs, sign-making supplies to share, simple snacks and musical instruments. 

"The report of the city's arborist condemning the tree contains a litany of mistakes. The arborist failed to use arboricultural best practices, ignored recommendations from more experienced parties, and created a report that is a generally poor reflection of the field of arboriculture," says arborist Beowulf Browers.

The tree’s historical name reflects its status as a landmark on the Cowlitz section of the Oregon Trail. The Cowlitz Trail was an east-west trail used for millennia by tribal nations. Later, the tree was a landmark used by non-indigenous settlers heading to what is now Washington.

“It stands as one of the most beautiful and majestic mature White Oaks in our area,” said Su Sikora of SDMGO. “This is not just any tree, but a tree with cultural importance, historic significance and community meaning, a beloved landmark known to many as the big beautiful tree by the airport.”

The Garry or white oak is a state-protected species, and the Davis Meeker tree was listed on the Tumwater Register of Historic Places in 1995.

On May 22, the Tumwater City Council met and failed to take any action to pass an ordinance to protect the tree, despite testimony from citizens and arborists. The council stated that it would instead respect the mayor's decision to cut the tree.

The citizen group said it is determined to stop the destruction of this magnificent tree and ensure its preservation for future generations and to make it safe for the oak stay where it is without threat to public safety. They are demanding that Tumwater City Council save and care for this irreplaceable piece of our heritage.

Judge Orders Stay of Axing of Historic Davis Meeker Garry Oak by City of Tumwater

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                              May 24, 2024

Judge Orders Stay of Axing of Historic Davis Meeker Garry Oak by City of Tumwater

OLYMPIA--On Friday Judge Sharonda Amamilo of Thurston County Superior Court issued a temporary restraining order preventing City of Tumwater from the destruction of a 400-year-old Garry oak that is a protected species and is listed in the Tumwater Register of Historic Places.

An attorney for the group Save the Davis Meeker Garry Oak obtained the order to prevent a needless and improperly applied use of city power to destroy the historic tree.

“Tumwater’s mayor spearheaded the misuse of a city code designed to protect historic structures and essentially turned the code on its head to claim it allows the cutting down of this historic tree without a permit,” said attorney Ronda Larson Kramer. “The city has now filed a motion to vacate the judge’s protection, ignoring the wishes of the citizens and the earlier decision by their own Historic Preservation Commission to retain the tree.”

On Saturday, May 25 at 4:00 p.m. the public is invited to the tree for a celebration to pay tribute to this 400-year tree and to honor its place in history as an important route marker along the historic Cowlitz Trail. It is located near the intersection of Capitol Boulevard SE and Almar Lane SE in Tumwater. There will be music, information, food and a community rally to save this important living part of Northwest history. People are invited to bring their instruments and food to share.

The tree’s historical name reflects its status as a landmark on the Cowlitz section of the Oregon Trail. The Cowlitz Trail was a north-south trail used for millennia by tribal nations. Later, the tree was a landmark used by white settlers heading to what is now Washington. The Garry or white oak is a state-protected species, and the Davis Meeker tree was listed on the Tumwater Register of Historic Places in 1995. It is the only living thing on the register as the rest of the listings are area historic buildings.

“This tree is still a landmark today, reminding us of our many cultural roots and of those who have passed this way for thousands of years,” said Michelle Peterson, group spokesperson. “At 400 years old, it is a middle-aged tree and we intend to protect it for the generations who follow us.”

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Unite to Save the Davis-Meeker Oak Tree

In the heart of Thurston County, Washington, stands a majestic oak tree that has witnessed generations pass by, providing shade, beauty, and a sense of history to all who admire it. However, the future of this beloved tree is in jeopardy, as there are plans to cut it down.

A group of passionate individuals has come together to form a website dedicated to saving this historic oak tree. The website serves as a hub for the community to unite and take action. By providing updates on the latest developments, information on upcoming events, and ways to get involved, the website aims to mobilize support and rally activists to stand up for the preservation of this natural treasure. Through the website, visitors can access a petition to voice their opposition to cutting down the oak tree, connect with like-minded individuals on the Facebook page, and even volunteer their time to help in the conservation efforts. The goal is to not only protect this oak tree but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations. While the primary focus is on garnering support from Thurston County residents, the website also strives to reach out to neighboring counties and potentially expand its reach in the future. Additionally, fundraising efforts may be on the horizon to ensure the long-term conservation of the oak tree. It is inspiring to see a community come together to fight for a common cause, showcasing the power of unity and activism. By joining forces and standing strong, we can make a difference and save the Davis-Meeker oak tree for generations to come. Let's unite, raise our voices, and protect this symbol of history and nature in our midst.