Tree Commission designates three new heritage trees, approves Olsson Park nomination

The Wilmington Tree Commission approved three heritage‑tree nominations in a single session vote after brief discussion of each nomination’s characteristics and community value.

Commissioners considered Masters Lane first; members discussed whether a split trunk constituted a single specimen and then moved to approve the nomination by motion and voice vote. Jean made the first motion and Terry seconded, and the commission recorded the designation.

The commission then considered the Park Avenue nomination and again moved to approve after confirming prior review. A motion was made and seconded, and members voiced their approval.

For the Olsson Park nomination the commission discussed the tree’s historical and community ties — including a nomination letter that cited Peggy Olsen’s donation of the land — and members noted the tree’s smaller stature but community significance. Commissioners debated point calculations that compare candidate trees to champion‑tree thresholds but emphasized the value of publicly accessible specimen trees for outreach. Alana moved and another member seconded; the commission approved the Olsson Park "Pimmen" tree designation by voice vote.

After the votes, the chair summarized that three new heritage trees were added and commissioners expressed enthusiasm that the program is attracting public nominations. The commission did not record individual roll‑call vote tallies in the transcript; votes were taken by voice and no nays were reported during each item.