Save Highcrest Tree Grove!

The Wilmette Park District and Village of Wilmette have disclosed additional details of their storm water management plan, which includes clearcutting an ENTIRE GROVE of cherished trees to install a massive underground reservoir behind Highcrest Middle School.

This grove has served generations of Wilmette residents as an area of beauty and shade for neighbors, users of the Park, and Highcrest students. Not to mention, these 31 trees act as natural storage vessels for excess water. Likely up to 100 years old, the grove will not be able to be replaced in any of our lifetimes.  Additionally, after the reservoir is placed, new trees and large shrubs will not be able to be planted above the enormous concrete tank. In an age where climate change is occurring at a terrifying rate, removing trees that help mitigate carbon dioxide is unacceptable.

We support a solution for storm-water management. However, this must be done in a less destructive way. Engineers commissioned by the Village of Wilmette have actually provided a more affordable plan, saving both the trees and taxpayer money. 

Alarmingly, the environmental impacts of the proposed projects have not been fully studied, despite many residents demanding more information. 

Sign this petition and raise your voice to save the trees now!

ADDITIONALLY:

COME AND BE PRESENT to support this cause at the next Wilmette Park Board Meeting on Monday, August 12 at 7:30pm!

See https://www.wilmette.com/village-
services/stormwater-management/ for more information.