May 19th, 2025 - Two large elm trees near the “IMAGINE” mosaic at Strawberry Fields were removed mid-May due to decline, according to the Central Park Conservancy.
Visitors to the John Lennon memorial were surprised by the removals, which happened about a week apart. The trees provided shade and a serene atmosphere for musicians and visitors alike.
The Conservancy emphasized the removals were part of routine care to maintain the health of the park’s trees, which number over 18,000. The elm trees are iconic but vulnerable.
The Conservancy confirmed no Dutch elm disease was present and that there are no plans for further removals in the area.
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