WASHINGTON DC, United States — Small cherry trees with stunted growth line the southern edge of the Tidal Basin, their development hampered by frequent flooding with brackish water. These trees were among hundreds removed in summer 2024 as part of the Tidal Basin Seawall Reconstruction Project, a major initiative to address flooding and infrastructure issues in the area.
Photograph by David Coleman. The stunted cherry trees along the Tidal Basin's southern edge exemplify the environmental challenges facing this iconic Washington DC landmark. These Yoshino cherry trees (Prunus × yedoensis), descendants of the 1912 gift from Japan, have struggled against frequent tidal flooding and increased salinity in the soil. The Tidal Basin Seawall Reconstruction Project, a $113 million initiative funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, aims to address these issues. Begun in 2024, the project involves rebuilding seawalls, improving drainage, and replanting vegetation better suited to changing conditions. The removal of these stressed trees, while necessary for the area's long-term preservation, represents a poignant moment in the site's history. It highlights the complex interplay between cultural preservation, environmental adaptation, and infrastructure needs in the face of climate change and rising sea levels. The project plans to replant 455 trees, including 274 cherry trees, upon completion, ensuring the continuation of this beloved cultural landscape.
Size: 8256px × 5504px
Location: Tidal Basin, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | CherryBlossomWatch / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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