Tree Board narrows library replacement to bur oak, silver linden and Kentucky coffee tree

Philomath’s Tree Board moved toward a final choice for the tree that will replace an elm removed at the library, settling on a prioritized shortlist led by bur oak, with silver linden and Kentucky coffee tree as alternates.

The decision followed discussion of a candidate list compiled from the Oregon Resilient Tree List, an ODF/OSU resource intended to help pick species likely to thrive over the next several decades amid changing climate conditions. A board member said one Zelkova candidate was removed from consideration after staff noted susceptibility to Dutch elm disease.

Board members emphasized site constraints such as uncertain soil quality and occasional standing water at the library planting location. Those conditions prompted debate about species suitability: although river birch was noted as resistant to the bronze birch borer, members characterized it as shorter-lived and listed it as a lower-priority alternate. Several members argued a large shade tree is desirable to provide shade for the Sunday market and library patrons, but they also noted that large trees can eventually conflict with overhead utilities and require recurring pruning and maintenance.

To reduce future conflicts, members asked staff to provide a prioritized list of three recommended trees—primary plus alternates—so the city can secure nursery stock and identify a planting spot with vehicle clearance and minimal interference with utilities. Staff said most of the shortlisted species should be readily available from local nurseries.

The board did not adopt a formal motion at the meeting; members asked staff to return with the prioritized recommendations and sourcing options at a future meeting.

The tree-selection discussion was the meeting’s first substantive item and will be followed by planning for Arbor Day and a canopy/inventory update.