A tree at the Public Gardens in Halifax has been vandalized for the second time, after a slew of trees were damaged at the iconic landmark four years ago.
Halifax police say they received a call from the groundskeeper July 20th, that a tour guide found new damage on a tree that was vandalized in 2022.
“The tree had what appeared to be fresh impacts from likely a hatchet style tool, about 6-8 inches in diameter,” says public information officer Mandy Paquet in an email to our newsroom.
Police believe the incident happened somewhere between late Sunday, July 19 and 10 a.m., Monday, July 20.
According to the city, the damage was to a weeping European beech, and it is significant.
“While staff have assessed the tree and are providing appropriate care, we cannot say with certainty how the new damage will affect the tree’s long-term health,” says Public Affairs Advisor Greame Benjamine.
Four years ago
The Public Gardens is a historic tourism attraction in Halifax.
It was July 2022 when 33 trees were girdled at the gardens. A technique used with a hatchet or axe to strip the bark and causes a tree to die.
The trees were more than 200 years old.
Benjamin says the other trees that were vandalized four years ago have different degrees of damage. Many have recovered well, two have been removed while others continue to be assessed.
“The municipality takes acts of vandalism seriously,” says Benjamin.
Beefing up security
To help increase security measures the city has added more cameras and are reviewing them regularly.
“We don’t provide specific details about security measures, including locations or details for safety and security reasons,” says Benjamin.
No suspects have been found at this time; however, the city is asking anyone with photos or video that could help with the investigation to call police.
