Effort Forms to Save Centuries-Old Teaneck Tree

An online petition seeking to halt a plan to chop down a centuries-old oak tree at Cedar Lane and Palisade Avenue has gained about two dozen signatures since it was launched Monday.

The petition was formed following a report that county officials were set to remove the oak by Memorial Day because of a tree expert's report citing safety concerns.

"We, concerned residents and former residents, demand that the demolition be halted and postponed while outside, independent tree specialists are brought in to offer their opinions on the tree's health and likelihood that it poses a threat to the community's safety," the petition, posted on change.org, states.

Jeanne Baratta, Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan's chief of staff, told Patch on Friday that the tree was largely hollow, attracting termites and decaying. A report by the county's tree expert concluded the tree presented a safety hazard and should be removed.

Baratta said the county would await another inspection from a tree expert hired by the Puffin Foundation, which helped preserve the massive oak.

News that the tree would be removed came months after Teaneck officially designated the oak as a historic site. It is believed to be at least 250 years old. 

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