Five trees in the University Quad will be removed beginning Aug. 3 after a report by a certified arborist concluded their removal would protect the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors.

The inspection was prompted after a large tree limb broke away and damaged a nearby fence and two tables on July 2. No one was injured when the branch fell. The university hired the tree care professional to determine the health and condition of five large and mature Indian Laurel fig trees (Ficus nitida) in front of the Campus Center Marketplace.

The arborist found that the trees’ large branches have an inherent structural weakness due to an inward growth pattern. The “hazard” trees are very prone to decay and have a greater potential for branch splits.

According to the report, the usual methods of securing the trees would not be successful. Reduction pruning is not recommended for old, stressed and mature trees because it may further their decline. Brace and/or cable supports would not provide a permanent or guaranteed solution, nor would they improve the trees’ health.

The removal will take three or four days. Facilities management will also repair the building entry, walkway and landscaping.