Tree removal has an impact

IT’S really pathetic. Residents sneaking around in the dead of night removing trees along the beachfront to improve their views at Yorkeys Knob.

But it is likely to backfire on them if the Cairns Regional Council erects an ugly billboard blocking their views until replacement trees grow to the right height.

The ongoing clearing of casuarina trees and dune scrub from a 50m length of beach in front of a

Deauville Close unit complex is being investigated by the council after complaints from residents.

New casuarina seedlings are being ripped out frequently and it can have grave environmental consequences.

The trees protect the soil through their foliage and roots and their removal can lead to widespread erosion and the increase of sediment run-off into waterways.

Nutrients and other pollutants attached to these sediments have the potential to be released in the marine environment and impact coral and seagrass.

The removal of trees, seedlings and saplings also increase weed growth and can slow the recovery of a natural ecosystem.

The last laugh will be on the council which is likely to put up an embarrassing sign declaring the removal of the vegetation is illegal.

It was done earlier this year at the southern end of Vasey Esplanade at Trinity Beach after 75-year-old beach almonds were poisoned.

Crime doesn’t pay and the culprits should be ashamed and shamed. Nick Dalton

Deputy editor