Two bold, imposing white oaks were recently toppled at the Old Forestville Schoolhouse located on Fairfax County property adjacent to the Great Falls Grange. But members of the Great Falls Citizens Association wanted to make a difference for future generations. So they planted a white oak at the Grange Park playground and a new maple in front of the Schoolhouse.
Wood chips indicate approximately where the two white oaks previously stood
According to The Connection Newspapers, "On Wednesday, Nov. 18, employees at Rossen Landscape planted the two trees on the property. Bill Canis, who is President of the Great Falls Citizens Association, said “Great Falls Citizens Association has an ongoing partnership with Fairfax County Park Authority to provide new trees in local parks.” According to Canis, the Association worked with the Park Authority to identify the need for the trees, find the right locations, call 811 to mark underground utilities, receive permission, and then the Association purchased the trees."
As per The Connection Newspapers, "It was a little over two weeks after remnants of Hurricane Zeta brought heavy rains and strong winds to the region on Friday, Oct. 29, leaving the soil saturated. The first tree toppled early that morning. The second tree without warning crashed two days later on Monday, Nov. 2. It’s massive trunk and branches blocked Innsbruck Avenue. Later, it was determined to be over 200 years old, according to Canis. There was no visible inner damage to its trunk or base. Saturated soil may have contributed to either or both trees falling, but at this time, the Association is still checking into the matter."
Maryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.
