Save the Trees That Save Us

Thanks to George Haas for alerting us to the fate of some nonnative trees in the L.A. Basin (“Here Today. Gone Tomorrow?” May 13). We live in a world where we frequently hear news of city planners approving the removal of some well-established trees in the name of progress. These stories are often followed by the latest report on global warming. When are we going to get it that the first step toward warding off warming and increasing oxygen is by saving every tree that can stand up to the stresses of L.A.’s air quality?

Scientists, not politicians (except Al Gore), should be the stewards of our trees. Let the trees shed, shade and break up the sidewalks. We can’t thank them enough for sucking up our pollutants and giving us the gift of pure oxygen in return.

Linda Thomas

Ojai

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One thing that keeps me from leaving Southern California is the jacaranda tree. In late spring, when I catch the first sight of its color, I get a visceral feeling of warmth and awe. On the lucky occasions when one has been in my yard, I’ve watched it for signs of purple, basked in its glory when in bloom and, without irritation, cleaned up the sticky mess.

Gerri Chizeck

Mar Vista

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I’m from another generation. You know, the one that treasures the past--the simple pleasures of tree-lined streets, statuesque palms dotting the skyline and glorious “gnarly” trees lining wide avenues.

What’s happened to our society where McMansions and concrete exemplify beauty, and where only the needs of oneself are important? No time to rake, water, prune or lie on the grass under the shade of an old tree. Dig it up, raze it, tear it down.

Ah, Progress!

Sandy Gray

Via the Internet