Update on Barton Springs Pool Tree Flo: Removal scheduled for Oct. 5, 2023

 

Due to the safety risks, the leaning tree at Barton Springs known as "Flo" will be removed on October 5 when Barton Springs Pool is closed. The Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) took many factors into consideration when reaching this decision, most importantly, public safety. PARD will be collaborating with community stakeholders to honor and memorialize Flo. An outline and schedule of public meetings will be available on the Barton Springs Pool Tree Update webpage. The Department invites the public to honor "Flo" at a Celebration of Life on October 4 at 6:30 p.m. at Barton Springs Pool, 2131 William Barton Dr. The celebration of life will include a water blessing, speakers about Flo’s history and music. People who attending the celebration should plan to park on the south side of the pool and walk around due to limited space in the main lot.  PARD recognizes the immense value "Flo" has provided to our shared community and that the tree removal will change the landscape around Barton Springs Pool. PARD is collecting stories, memories, and photos about Flo. Stories can be viewed online. The public is invited to share their remembrances via email at treestories@austintexas.gov. Structural defects in the tree have existed for decades, and PARD has worked hard to support and maintain the tree. These defects combined with the confirmed diagnosis of brittle cinder fungus, which has no cure, will cause this tree to fail. A tree of this size in an area of high use, even with barricades blocking access, is a life safety hazard. All arborist reports and a timeline of Flo’s life in photos is available online at AustinTexas.gov/BSPtree.