Topline:
A Valley Oak tree in Stevenson Ranch that’s believed to be more than 400 years old has been designated a Los Angeles County Historic Landmark.
Why it matters: The tree, dubbed “Old Glory,” is a symbol of community activism, environmental stewardship, and is a living relic of the Santa Clarita Valley’s natural history, according to the motion by Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
Why now: The L.A. County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to approve the move on Tuesday.
The backstory: People in the community rallied to protect the tree when it was threatened by a proposed subdivision in 2002. They included John Quigley, who climbed the old oak and spent more than 70 days in its branches to bring attention to the issue.
Where to see the tree: Old Glory ended up being relocated down the road to Pico Canyon Park, where it still stands today.
What community members say: The Santa Clarita Organization for Planning and the Environment (SCOPE) wrote in a public comment that its been working toward the designation for around two years as a way to highlight the “incredible” tree.
“We believe it is a great way to honor its survival and all the people who helped to save it as well as bringing attention to the importance of oaks and the part they play in cleaning our air and protecting us against climate change,” the organization wrote.
Read more... about trees in Los Angeles.