As a frequent visitor during all seasons of the year to the Palisades State Park as well as the Garretson city park and Gulch, I have appreciated the improvements in the last two years. Among these are the benches, the Wiese trail, the improved camping sites as well as the pollinator trail at the Palisades.
However, one of the changes seems to me largely destructive. I am referring to the clearing of large trees and most vegetation in the small gulch by the bridge just south of the parking lot and bath house/visitor center. While I understand that ash trees will need to be removed and replaced, some of the large trees were burr oak and other species. Burr oak are slow growing and native to South Dakota. It will take fifty or more years for new trees to reach considerable size. That little gulch with water running through it was a lovely hidden treasure, a place for a range of birds, some migratory, as well as squirrels and sometimes deer. The water, trees, and other vegetation made the park a welcome place for geese, hawks, and occasionally an eagle It was a little piece of Nature.
Why are trees and vegetation important? They form a supportive community, provide habitat, enhance air quality, and prevent erosion in places like that little gulch. Without that smaller vegetation there will be more dust and run-off washing away soil as well as less cover for birds and small animals. Even dead trees provide homes to woodpeckers and other animals. I think of the second grade class which this spring took a nature survey in the city park and listed what they saw.
In my opinion, the Garretson City Park has room for Nature with a capital N as well as people. We should avoid taking out mature trees that are not endangered by disease. In conclusion, trees are our friends. Shade is good.
Respectfully, Ruth Sarar
