At around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, the live oak known as the “Grandfather Oak” at Bonnet Springs Park developed a split down its main trunk causing a large portion of the iconic tree to fall.
A maintenance worker was passing nearby and heard cracking coming from the tree. He was able to clear the area of visitors before the break. No injuries occurred, according to Kirsten Hein, vice president of engagement.
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The Grandfather Oak is estimated to be around 200 years old, based its trunk’s 75-inch diameter.
Park staff have cordoned off the area surrounding the tree and temporarily closed the canopy walk as a precaution. An arborist inspected the tree on Saturday, and park staff will weigh their options on Monday to decide their next steps.
This is a developing story. LkldNow will update as more information becomes available.
LkldNow is a nonprofit newsroom providing independent local news for Lakeland. Read at LkldNow.com.
