Video: Trees being killed along Burke-Gilman Trail

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SEATTLE – Parks and Recreation staffers say someone has intentionally killed seven mature trees on the Burke-Gilman Trail.

They suspect someone injected herbicide into the trees, which are roughly 70 feet tall and stand at NE 77th Street along the trail. Each had several quarter-inch holes drilled around the trunk.

"The poplars especially, the leaf is black, which is an indication it died very quickly and usually you will only see that with herbicide damage," said Mark Mead, Seattle Urban Senior Forester.

Three silver poplars and two Douglas Firs are already dead, and two additional trees are turning brown. Their worth is estimated at up to $60,000.

The poplars show scars of previous, less lethal attacks. They survived after someone several years ago tried to cut off their water supply by slicing a so-called girdle around the base.

"I have no idea why someone would do that," said Loren Bogaard, trail user.

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Police are investigating the intentional death of seven 70-foot tall trees at NE 77th Street along the Burke-Gilman Trail.

The parks department says it will take up to 30 years for the replacement trees to reach maturity.

"This loss is significant," said Parks and Recreation Superintendent Tim Gallagher, in a press release. "Because there are so few conifers in this area of the trail."

There are some impressive views hidden behind the trees. If it was a view improvement crime, the penalties can be severe. In addition to the estimated value of the trees, a homeowner could pay a fine equal to the amount their property values rise by the enhanced view.

Police will be contacting neighbors in the area but at this time there are no suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to call 206-625-5011.