Mililani Vandalism Results In Nine Destroyed Trees

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Mililani Vandalism Results In Nine Destroyed Trees
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Mililani vandalism results in nine destroyed trees

O‘AHU – Earlier this week nine young street trees along Anania Drive in Mililani were destroyed at the hands of one or many vandals.

The senseless act of destruction impacted Silver trumpet, Pak lan, and Tulipwood trees along the residential road between Meheula Parkway and Lanikūhana Ave.

These trees were part of a planting effort which began in May 2018 and continued in May 2020, with 34 trees ultimately being planted. Many of the trees destroyed this week were nearly established and already showed signs of maturation.

Pictures submitted by area residents and Division of Urban Forestry arborists show clean cuts at the base of the young trees, suggesting that tools were used and the vandalism was potentially more than a random act of stupidity.

Each tree costs approximately $1,750 to purchase, install, and maintain, making the total estimated monetary loss of $15,750.

While these crimes may be discouraging, DUF arborists plan to replace the trees, and will likely use this opportunity to plant even more trees in this area.

It is illegal to damage any City tree, tree stake, or guard. Violations can be punished by a fine not exceeding $500 and/or imprisonment of up to six months. We urge anyone witnessing vandalism or damage to a City tree, or any City or private property, to please call 911.

The urban forests across Oʻahu are a vital environmental, social, and economic resource. Trees provide a plethora of benefits, with every $1 invested in tree planting returning an estimated $3 in benefits, including:

•Improved air quality and carbon sequestration
•Storm water interception and absorption of runoff
•Shade and temperature cooling amidst the increasing impacts of climate change
•Wildlife habitat
•
If you need an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodations due to a disability, or an interpreter for a language other than English in reference to this announcement, please contact the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation at (808) 768-3003 on weekdays from 7:45 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. or email parks@honolulu.gov

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Kaimuki Hawaii News Item

Mililani Vandalism Results In Nine Destroyed Trees

Kaimuki Hawaii
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