Auburn forms task force to save oaks

Published 12:00 am Saturday, February 19, 2011

AUBURN – Auburn University has formed a task force to help save its famed Toomer’s Corner oak trees, bringing together experts in horticulture, agronomy, civil engineering, forestry, chemistry and landscape services.

• The task force asks fans not to roll Toomer’s Corner or walk in the bedding area, which could further harm the trees.

• On Friday afternoon, workers put a tarp over the bedding area to keep rainwater from going into the roots. A fence was constructed around the bedding area as well.

• Soil removal begins early next week, and more soil samples will be taken during the process to determine the concentration of the herbicide at different depths. A tent will be constructed over the dig area to contain dust.

• Civil engineers will install small cylinders to monitor the downward spread of herbicide.

Future actions will be based on results of these steps.

-Special to Star-News