NEWS RELEASE

After several formal and informal meetings held in the Kenwood community, Sonoma County Regional Parks has begun implementation of the public safety and preservation measures regarding the signature valley oak in the center of Kenwood Plaza Park. These measures include preparing tree assessment reports, performing periodic pruning, providing ornamental fencing, installing habitat restoration signs, planting new seedlings, and preparing a resource-based interpretive panel.

The initial tree pruning work is scheduled for the afternoon of November 14, 2008 and will be performed by Sandborn Tree Service under the direction of John Meserve of Horticultural Associates and Regional Parks. The new 48” high ornamental wrought iron fencing and gates are scheduled to be installed by Kenwood Fence Company over the week of November 17-21. Once the protective fencing is in place, the habitat restoration signs will be installed and planting of the seedlings will be performed by park staff. Design and development of the interpretive panel will be a joint project between Regional Parks and Arthur Dawson of the Sonoma Ecology Center. This educational tool will provide resource-based information on the cultural and historical values of the valley oak in the Sonoma Valley area. We hope to have this interpretive panel completed and installed in 2009.

We thank the community for all their help in reaching a consensus on how to protect public safety and preserve this significant natural resource for future generations to share and enjoy.