Destruction of Celery Bog trees appalling

focb April 23rd, 2008

[NOTE: Sue Hisner's Letter to the Editor in the Lafayette, IN Journal & Courier for Tuesday 04 March 2008 ]

Destruction of Celery Bog trees appalling

I was appalled when I saw the live and dead trees cut down along the Kampen Golf Course side of the Celery Bog.

Even though this land is on Purdue University golf course property, it is part of the wetland environment.

It provided habitat and nesting sites for countless birds and animals. West Lafayette is blessed to have the Celery Bog as a public park, environmental and educational center and tourist attraction.

Many of the birds and animals that used the trees may never return. This is a loss for our community.

This wanton destruction of the wildlife habitat and wetland area is especially unconscionable at a public university where students are being taught and encouraged to enjoy and protect natural areas.

The Tippecanoe County naturalist at the Celery Bog wasn’t even contacted about the plans to remove the trees.

When there is a special place such as the Celery Bog next to Purdue property, Purdue has a responsibility to ensure that nothing is lost by their plans. Such destruction is certainly not being a good neighbor.

It is reported that native grasses will be planted.

Grasses will never replace the habitat that was lost. Plants, bushes and trees appropriate for a wetland area are needed.

But it will take years and years to replace the habitat that was lost.

Purdue must take responsibility for this destruction, make appropriate plans with Celery Bog staff and begin the rehabilitation of this wildlife habitat.

Sue Hiser

West Lafayette