Saanich works to retain Bigleaf Maple tree

Saanich, B.C. – Following community interest, the District of Saanich is working to retain a declining Bigleaf Maple tree that was previously deemed for removal.

The Bigleaf Maple is adjacent to a development occurring at 5032 Wesley Road and was posted with a removal notice on June 30, 2025.

Saanich staff and the applicant initially worked together to mitigate impacts of the development and retain what was believed to be a healthy Bigleaf Maple tree.

However, when the tree leafed out in the spring, it was discovered that large sections of the tree were dead, including the centre stem. Due to indications that the tree was in decline and cumulative impacts of the development, Saanich staff made the difficult decision that the tree was not suitable for retention.

Since the removal notice was posted, the District heard how much the community values the tree. The District is working with the property owner to retain the tree, despite its ongoing maintenance costs. To support the tree’s retention, the community has found a tree care company willing to donate some of their costs to help retain the tree.

Currently the tree is jointly shared with the District and the applicant (growing on private and Saanich property) and will become wholly Saanich’s once the project is implemented.