By Olivia Shying
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WAGGA historian John Winterbottom has emphasised the historical importance of trees in the wake of the removal of one of Wagga's most prominent gum trees.
The large gum tree, located within the boundaries of Wagga High School, near Coleman Street was removed on Thursday.
The removal comes after the tree was severely pruned earlier this year.
So far, Riverina residents have reacted mildly to the trees removal.
The reaction can be contrasted to the outcry of the 1970s, when it is said protestors chained themselves to tree when a proposal to remove it was on the cards.
The removal comes in the wake of a recent statewide crackdown on trees, after a young Sydney school girl was killed by a fallen branch.
The Daily Advertiser contacted the Department of Education and Communities for comment, and were advised the tree was "removed on recommendation of an arborist engaged as part of the audit on trees on public school grounds."
Earlier this month The Daily Advertiser reported that seven silky oak trees were to be removed at Wagga Public School, meanwhile a number of trees were removed from Lachlan Street Hay.
Mr Winterbottom, who is also a former Wagga High School student, recalled fond memories of trees during his high school years.
He emphasised the historical importance of trees, with the planting of the trees often indicating the placement of buildings and the original plans for sites.
He also said the species of trees planted pointed to the thinking of the time and what style of trees were favoured.