Champion Persimmon Tree to Be Removed for Public Safety
The City of Conway will remove the Arkansas Champion Persimmon tree along Stone Dam Creek Trail within the next 1–2 weeks. While this tree has been recognized for its exceptional size and status, a recent professional risk assessment determined that it poses a high risk of failure.
The assessment found:
Extensive heartwood decay and a hollow trunk on the north side.
Crown dieback, with much of the tree no longer producing healthy foliage.
Lightning damage and prior large branch failures.
Root disturbances caused by past site clearing and trail construction, including cut roots and soil mounding at the base.
Because the trail runs directly beside the tree and is frequently used by pedestrians, the risk of falling limbs or trunk failure is too great to leave it standing. Arborists recommended removal as the only effective way to eliminate the hazard.
We recognize this tree’s importance as a community landmark and its unique designation as a Champion Persimmon. Its removal is a difficult but necessary step to protect the safety of everyone who uses Stone Dam Creek Trail.
Arkansas Champion Tree Program
The Arkansas Champion Tree Program is a recognition program for the largest trees of each tree species in Arkansas.
Arkansas is renowned for its scenic, natural beauty and abundant forested areas. The trees of this great state are pieced together across a varied landscape and offer huge diversity. Champions are unique from one another in size, width, and even color, as they represent entirely different species from one tree to the next. It’s important to remember that not all Arkansas Champions are necessarily tree giants; rather, they are the largest for that tree species.
