Brazen theft of park's evergreen tree disappoints people nearby

The City of Ottawa is investigating what it calls an unauthorized removal of an evergreen tree from a city park in Orléans in the week before Christmas.

The tree in Cardinal Creek Community Park near the bend on Trim Road was seemingly cut down and stolen overnight. All that remained on Monday morning was a stump, some loose branches and pine cones.

Images of the brazen theft's aftermath were posted to a local Facebook group, where it prompted responses of amusement, bewilderment and concern.

Jason Pollard, the city's forestry section manager, said in a statement that city trees are protected by a bylaw and that staff will assess the site for future tree-planting opportunities.

'Maybe it's someone's idea of a joke'

Nearby residents said the tree's disappearance was one of the stranger things to happen in what they describe as a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood.

Mark Holleron said whoever did it must have had a pretty big vehicle to take it away.

"I hate to to smile about it, but I'm wondering who's chopping down large-sized trees," he said. "Maybe it's someone's idea of a joke, but not a very good one."

Photographer Melissa Gauthier said the park makes for a good backdrop and she often brings clients there. 

"My mind goes toward today being near Christmas and some of the [tree] prices, everything's gone up," she said. 

Hardi Vora, who described herself as a "nature lover" who frequents the park with her dog, said she's disappointed someone would cut the tree down as it's a popular outdoor area frequented by other dog walkers.