Please be advised, the Jekyll Island Authority will be removing two historic live oak trees on Thursday, October 9 that have declined in health and pose a direct safety concern. The two live oaks slated for removal are located as follows:
- The service area of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, leaning directly over the main pavilion
- In between Captain Wylly Road and the bike path just north of the Jekyll Island Tennis Center
Prior to reaching this decision, the Jekyll Island Authority sought out a second opinion from a local certified arborist to understand whether these trees could be saved or suitable for an aftercare treatment program. It was determined by both the arborist and JIA that the best course of action for both trees is removal, as they now pose a risk to public safety given their proximity to heavily trafficked areas.
Upon removal of both trees, the remaining stumps will be ground up and both trees will be fully mitigated in accordance to the requirements of the Jekyll Island Tree Protection Ordinance.
Temporary Traffic Delays & Parking Lot Closures
The removal of the Capt. Wylly live oak tree will result in periodic and temporary traffic delays, with traffic being stopped or diverted on an as needed basis.
The removal of the GSTC tree will result in temporary closure of a portion of the Center's parking lot, though public access to the center will remain open. The Center's hours of operation will not be impacted.
