Spruce Tree Removal Scheduled As Part Of Fire Hydrant Replacement

Saying goodbye to an old friend.

Sometimes decisions aren't easy ones. The fire hydrant on Pioneer Avenue at the corner of Kachemak Way (near City Hall parking lot) has been out of service for an extended time, compromising firefighting response capabilities, and affecting Homer’s ISO rating (which impacts everyone's insurance rates).

What is ISO? The Insurance Services Office (ISO) provides data, analytics, and risk assessment services to the property and casualty insurance industry. Through its Public Protection Classification program, ISO evaluates communities on their fire protection capabilities—an important factor that influences local insurance rates. One key element of this evaluation is the condition and functionality of fire hydrants, including flow testing.

Due to the hydrant's age and condition, it can no longer be repaired and must be replaced to protect the City's ISO rating. Replacing the hydrant requires excavation up to 10 feet deep, which will unfortunately damage the root system of the large spruce tree at that location. Severing major roots could destabilize the tree or lead to its decline or death, posing a safety risk. To ensure safe and successful hydrant replacement and protect public infrastructure, the tree will be removed as part of the project.