Ancient Tri-State Tree Faces Threat from New Highway Project

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CLARKSVILLE, Ohio - A small town in Clinton County is coming together to protect a historic tree that may be at risk due to a nearby highway project. The tree, which stands over 120 feet tall and has a diameter of nearly 5 feet, is believed to be between 150 and 200 years old. Its age and size make it a significant part of the local landscape and history.

Caption: Residents of a small town in Clinton County are uniting to protect a historic tree after hearing it may be threatened by a nearby highway project. (WKRC)

Bill Hockett, who has owned the land where the tree is located for over a century, is worried about its future. He recently noticed that the county had placed stakes along Clarksville Road, marking the area they intend to acquire for the highway project. Hockett is concerned that this could lead to the removal of the tree, as well as other elements like fencing and berry briars.

"They say it's for parking equipment, but if they park over here, they also want to take out the tree," Hockett said. "I don't know how much damage they're actually going to do to the property if they start taking that."

To ensure the tree’s safety, Hockett has hired an arborist to evaluate its health and provide an appraisal in case legal action becomes necessary. Jeffrey Linkous, the Clinton County engineer, stated that the county does not plan to cut down the tree and will not park any work vehicles near it. However, Hockett insists on receiving written assurances from the county before proceeding.

"We'll work with them on the other half of the creek," Hockett said. "But we don't want to sell them the tree, and we don't want it taken down."

Ron Rothaas, a certified master arborist from the Arbor Doctor, assessed the tree and confirmed that it is in good health. He advised that heavy equipment should remain at least 50 to 60 feet away from the tree to avoid damaging its roots.

"When you crush that soil and you squeeze the air pockets out of the soil, you kill those microorganisms and you crush the roots," Rothaas explained.

Hockett has not yet received written confirmation from the county, but Linkous mentioned that updated plans should be available soon. The community is waiting for more information as the project moves forward.

Key Concerns and Steps Being Taken

• Bill Hockett, the landowner, is deeply concerned about the potential impact of the highway project on the historic tree.
• The county has marked the right-of-way for the project, raising fears that the tree might be removed.
• Hockett has hired an arborist to assess the tree’s condition and prepare for possible legal action.
• The county engineer has stated that the tree will not be cut down and that no equipment will be parked near it.
• Despite these assurances, Hockett is seeking written confirmation to ensure the tree’s protection.
• Arborist Ron Rothaas has recommended keeping heavy machinery at a safe distance to prevent root damage.

Community Response and Next Steps

The residents of the town are rallying behind Hockett to protect the tree, recognizing its historical and environmental significance. As the highway project progresses, the community remains vigilant, hoping for clear communication and concrete actions from the county to safeguard this natural landmark.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing infrastructure development with the preservation of historical and ecological resources. With the support of experts and local residents, the fight to save the tree continues.