By Pepper Fisher
PORT ANGELES – The largest madrona tree in the state of Washington, located at 8th and Cherry streets in Port Angeles, is being cut down today.
The massive tree, native to the west coast and thought to be about 400 years old, has been dying for years. Andy Pittman, owner of North Star Earthworks, who is working together with PNW Tree Service to remove the tree, says it’s now considered a total loss and becoming dangerous. Pieces of the tree have begun to fall off onto neighboring properties, including the day care next door.
The property where it stands was years ago turned into a tiny private park, and has recently changed ownership. Pittman says the previous owner went to great lengths for years to try and save the tree when it began to die off, bringing in top local arborists, but nothing worked.
Pittman says the new owner is giving the wood to local woodworkers and craftsmen, as well as a number of school kids, as a way of honoring the city landmark.
The tree will be taken down in stages over a period of days, but Pittman says it won’t be cut to the ground. The main trunk and huge branches will be left standing at about 20 feet high, and a kind of tree fort is being designed.
(photos by Pepper Fisher)