"A good campus landscape requires constant vigilance. There is no such thing as a natural state of things in the New England landscape. Change and evolution are ongoing."
— Philip Parsons, Parsons Consulting Group

In combination with the College's distinguished architecture and the rolling topography of the campus's lawns, tall shade trees play a major role in defining the character of MHC's landscape. The stewardship of this "tree canopy" is a high priority for the College, according to John Bryant, director of facilities management. "Ideally, a healthy tree canopy consists of trees of differing species and ages," notes Jennifer Jones, landscape architect and consultant to the Campus Master Planning Committee. "This mix allows for the continuing health and strength of the canopy." Bryant says, "Many of the College's trees in the campus core are approaching maturity and are subject to pests and disease and just plain old age. The goal of the College's tree care program is to ensure a healthy, dynamic tree canopy—for the next generation and beyond."

A tree inventory, integrated with the College's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping system, is currently under way and will facilitate the continuing inspection, documentation, and replacement of the trees. The inventory will help the College's arborists and grounds staff establish priorities for tree care, such as fertilizing, aerating, and treatment for pests and diseases. At present, highest priority is given to safety pruning to alleviate hazards from weak or broken branches, damage to utilities or buildings, and blocked views near pedestrian routes. Additional pruning is occasionally required to thin the canopy to promote healthy branching or increase air circulation to discourage pests and diseases. Occasionally, it is necessary to remove a tree, either to eliminate safety hazards or to prevent the spread of pests or disease to other trees.

During the fall and winter, a number of campus trees were taken down. Some were infested with the disease Hemlock Woolly Adelgid or were in the process of decaying; others were severely damaged by storms and posed safety concerns; and several were removed to facilitate construction of the Unified Science Center.

Says Bryant "This careful stewardship of Mount Holyoke's tree canopy will ensure the continual restoration and renewal of this legacy for future generations of the College community."