Washington, DC – Stumpy, a beloved Japanese cherry blossom tree known for its sparse branches that bloom each spring, is facing its final days. Arborists have determined that Stumpy’s trunk is hollow, leading to its inclusion among 158 trees slated for removal as part of a $113 million sea wall repair project near the National Mall, attributed to the impacts of climate change.
The National Park Service plans to remove approximately 300 of the 3,700 trees lining the Tidal Basin reservoir between the Thomas Jefferson and Franklin Delano Roosevelt memorials to reinforce the sea walls along the reservoir and the west Potomac River. Despite its diminished appearance, Stumpy gained popularity in 2020 when a Reddit post comparing the tree’s condition to the user’s love life went viral, boosting its fame.
As Stumpy’s impending removal draws attention, visitors have been flocking to the Tidal Basin to catch a final glimpse of the iconic tree. The park service intends to propagate new trees from clippings taken from Stumpy and other cherry trees set for removal, ensuring that the legacy of Stumpy and its companions lives on. Additionally, the trees will be repurposed into mulch to nourish the remaining cherry trees on the National Mall.
While some mourn the loss of Stumpy, others acknowledge the necessity of the sea wall repair project. Peter Byrne, faculty director of the Georgetown Climate Center, explained that the deteriorating sea walls pose a safety risk due to settling and rising sea levels. He emphasized the importance of preserving the Tidal Basin’s cultural significance while addressing the environmental challenges faced by the area.
Despite the sentimental value attached to Stumpy, the decision to remove it reflects the urgent need to address climate-related threats to the Tidal Basin’s infrastructure. The ongoing sea wall repair project serves as a reminder of the ongoing impacts of climate change on beloved landmarks, prompting a balance between conservation efforts and necessary maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.
