More trees in Newport park die from 2018 poisoning

By: Amanda Pitts

alpitts@abc6.com

@APittsABC6

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) – Trees at King Park in Newport were deliberately poisoned last year, and the impact is bigger than expected.

In 2018, several trees were destroyed after someone poisoned their roots and surrounding soil. In recent weeks, city employees noticed several more trees have succumbed to the poison.

“We have someone that is actively coming up to the trees and pouring a liquid solvent that is killing the trees.”

Maureen Cronin with the Newport Tree Conservancy said the trees were first poisoned years ago, but it happened again this time last year. That same poison has killed two more trees at the park, with two others heading that direction. 

Cronin said a total of eight trees have been killed so far.

“This kind of destruction for no reason should incense us all,” said Cronin.

The city and conservancy have teamed up to raise awareness and hopefully gain new leads on who poisoned the trees. Signs are now posted on the trees saying “this tree was deliberately poisoned” and includes a fundraiser to help replant new ones.

“I’ve lived here over ten years, and I love this park. I come here every day with my dog, and it’s just really unsettling that someone could do such a thing,” said Diane Paggioli of Newport.

Two trees have already been replanted. The conservancy hopes to raise $15,000 to replace all of the trees.

“For every one that comes down, we will put another one up. We will not let this area go without trees,” said Cronin.

If you have any information on who is responsible, contact Scott Wheeler at 845-5802 or swheeler@cityofnewport.com.

© WLNE-TV 2019