In windstorm aftermath, arborists suggest evaluations before removing trees

As students started their journey home on Nov. 17, a towering pine collapsed on a parked car just outside Jefferson Elementary School.

Teachers and school leaders hurried children back inside as the winds blew stronger.

About the same time, at Franklin Elementary, as some students started their walk home, a pine toppled across 17th Avenue a few blocks from the school.

At Whitworth University, the campus arborist remained in his office though classes were canceled. More than 130 trees fell or were so damaged they had to be removed.

“I was scared for the students and the faculty,” said Will Mellott, Whitworth’s campus arborist. Full story . Jonathon Brunt, SR