Shasta College Clarifies Tree Removal Plans Ahead of Campus Quad Renovation

As part of a long-planned renovation project aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and long-term usability of its main campus quad, Shasta College is considering the removal of approximately 24 trees, including oaks and other native species. The proposed scope is still under review and work is not scheduled to begin until late September at the earliest.

The renovation project is designed to modernize aging walkways, improve ADA accessibility, and enhance emergency vehicle access to the campus interior—all while preserving the college’s long-standing commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

According to Shasta College President Dr. Frank Nigro, “We care deeply about our trees and the beautiful natural environment of our campus. We’re approaching this process carefully and responsibly—with safety, accessibility, and sustainability as our guideposts.”

A certified arborist has identified several of the trees as hazardous or in poor health, including seven oaks marked for removal due to structural danger. Others are overhanging instructional buildings or competing with healthier trees. Additional removals are required to complete ADA-compliant walkways and a new fire lane connection, which is a safety mandate approved by the State Fire Marshal and the Division of the State Architect.

Breakdown of proposed tree removals:

• 16 Oak Trees
  • 7 marked hazardous
  • 3 overhanging buildings
  • 6 being removed to preserve nearby healthy trees
• 3 Strawberry Trees – Within new fire lane footprint (the college will transplant or replace these trees)
•  1 Evergreen – Within new fire lane footprint
• 2 Cypress & 2 Liquid Amber Trees – Removed for ADA accessibility upgrades 

In particular, the current exposed aggregate concrete throughout the quad is cracked, uneven, and no longer meets safety or accessibility standards. The updated quad design will feature ADA-compliant pathways and a modernized layout to support student events and community gatherings for years to come.

The Landscape/Aesthetics Committee has received the preliminary plans and will be providing input over the coming months. For every tree removed, the college plans to plant three new ones of like kind, and they will make sure not to disturb active bird nests or habitats.

“We know how much our community values the natural beauty of our campus,” said Dr. Nigro. “That’s something we care about deeply too. Our goal is always to preserve what makes Shasta special while making improvements that ensure our campus remains safe, welcoming, and accessible. I’m reassured by the care and consideration our team is taking with this project to address any concerns from our students and community and to care for our environment today and for future generations of students.”

Shasta College values student and community input in shaping campus spaces. To share feedback or concerns about the quad renovation project, please use this online form: https://forms.office.com/r/BuiM3yLD5B which may be found on our Facilities Planning & Construction page. Submissions may include contact information so that a college representative can respond as appropriate.