As previously announced, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is preparing for the renovation of the W.J. Elliott (Trades) Building set to begin in summer 2025. This three-year project, funded primarily by the Alberta government, will enhance the building to better serve students and the community. Before construction begins, some preliminary work will take place around the building, starting with tree removal.
This month, Olds College Arboriculture Technician Certificate students will play a key role in this process as part of their hands-on learning. Instructors will start by removing a few trees later this week as a demonstration. Near the end of the month, students themselves will assist in tree removal as part of their classroom project, gaining real-world experience in the field.
Last year, the Presidential Trees for Trades Task Force committee was formed to assess the impact of the W.J. Elliott Building renovation on the trees and recommend a course of action. The committee reviewed each tree thoroughly and provided mitigation recommendations. Seven clusters of trees around the building have been identified as especially important for educational purposes. Where possible, these trees will be relocated. Where relocation is not feasible, similar trees will be included in the landscaping plan and replanted on campus to preserve the area's educational and environmental value.
Safety is the College's top priority during this process, and we have a team working to ensure all necessary safety precautions are in place. We would like to ask everyone on campus to please respect all signage and caution tape as this work is in progress. The area in front of the Trades building main doors will be blocked off for portions of time during the tree removal.
We would like to extend our gratitude to our industry partners for their ongoing support; Vermeer and Makita have both generously loaned us equipment to assist during the tree removal process. Additionally, we thank the Presidential Trees for Trades Task Force committee for their dedicated efforts in conducting a thorough assessment and providing recommendations for mitigation. Their work is invaluable in helping to ensure the learning environment for future students remains rich and sustainable.
Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward with the W.J. Elliott Building renovations.
For more information
4500 - 50th Street
Olds Alberta
Canada T4H 1R6
www.oldscollege.ca
