Island View Park Vandalized by Mowers - 5/23/08

A neighbor's surveillance camera caught pictures of the mowing crew that damaged Island View Park. Click the images below to view bigger pictures:

Here are pictures of the damage that was done to Island View Park. Click the images below to view bigger pictures:










May 23, 2008, Island View Park - What was supposed to be routine mowing turned into gross vandalism. The crew that “mowed” the area today carved deep gouges throughout park and seriously damaged 47 trees. The damage is so extensive, that had it been done by a citizen, the perpetrator should have been arrested for vandalism.

Gale Cupp, Fort Worth Parks Board member and steering committee chair of the Neighborhood Association of South Lake Worth, was sent a letter with pictures.

You can view the pictures of the damage by clicking each of the image sets above.

The letter to Ms. Cupp appears below:

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May 23, 2008

Gale Cupp
Board Member
Fort Worth Parks Board

Dear Ms. Cupp:

I am writing about an event that occurred in Island View Park today. What was supposed to be routine mowing turned into gross vandalism. The crew that “mowed” the area today carved deep gouges throughout park and seriously damaged 47 trees. The damage is so extensive, that had it been done by a citizen, the perpetrator would have been arrested for vandalism.

Earlier today, I happened to pass by the park. I noticed that the driver of the tractor seemed to be driving too fast and very erratic. When I surveyed the park later in the day, I found that the driver had caused extensive damage. Please have someone from the parks department survey the damage at Island View Park immediately.

At this point, I have three fears. First, I am afraid that if this type of abuse continues in Island View Park, no trees will survive. Second, I am fearful that that damage done today will cause some of the trees to die anyway. As you know, this side of town has extensive problems with oak wilt and other tree diseases. Open wounds on 47 trees puts them at risk for developing disease. I would ask that you have a professional arborist tend the trees. Third, I am afraid this crew is moving throughout our city, damaging other parks.

For your convenience, I have included pictures of 47 wounded trees (none appear twice) and the deep gouges that were excavated throughout the park (these really must be seen to be believed).

I want to thank you for the years you have invested in improving and overseeing the beautiful system of parks in Fort Worth. Our great city needs more people like you.

Sincerely,

Michael Dallas
President
Scenic Shores Neighborhood Association

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