This article was published on: 04/24/12 12:00 AM
Before the chain saws started, I called Tumalo Irrigation District
regarding their planned tree cutting along the First Street park to
maintain their irrigation pipeline under the trail. When asked about the
scope of their project, they assured me that their cutting would be
fairly minimal. However, instead, they cut large trees and did just what
I feared — overkill.
For over a 100 years, TID has been taking
water from the river. We all take a lot from the river in the way of
recreation and enjoyment. Now is the time for us to give back.
I
respect the fact that TID must maintain their pipeline, but the trees
provided shade and wildlife habitat. A better, more permanent way they
can protect the pipe is to trench along it and install a tree root
barrier. Once done, they would never have to cut trees again.
Other
things TID can do to give back is plant native plants with noninvasive
roots. They can install some fencing to protect the riparian plants. TID
should form partnerships with groups like East Cascades Audubon Society
and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council to augment funds and get
volunteers.
I appreciate the fact that TID allowed the city to
build a trail over their pipeline. But it is now a city park and all our
methods need to be brought up to 21st century standards. We now know
about the need for protecting our resources. It’s time for us all to
find ways of giving back.
Lynn Putnam
Bend