Planting two varieties of trees would make the treescape less prone to devastation from disease, so another Dutch elm disease tragedy could be avoided. Landscape designs must include much more than trees and shrubs, but those elements play a key role along with benches, trash receptacles and returning to the city's original architecture, among other items, to complete the desired look for the heart of our community. A look back in Ottawa's history to the days of tree-canopied streets proves our community's love for trees. Trees are one Kansas' natural resource that can and should be replenished for the benefit of future generations. Ottawa's Tree Board and the city parks and forestry crews have worked hard to be visionaries and revitalize the former picturesque park, as well as other sites around the community with new trees.
Trees are an imperative part of downtown.
We urge Main Street members to append the Tree Board's recommendation, if necessary, to replant trees on Main Street and create the future we want for downtown Ottawa.