Tree removal begins at historic England Grove ahead of replanting

REDLANDS, Calif. — Tree removal is underway at the historic England Grove, marking the next step in a preservation effort that will see the property permanently protected under city ownership.

A large sign posted at the grove — located at the southeast corner of Palm and Alvarado avenues — outlines the city’s plan to replant 784 Cara Cara orange trees and install a fan jet irrigation system beginning in June. The project is part of a $100,000 acquisition deal the City Council unanimously approved in January.

The grove is one of the last remaining agricultural properties in the area and will soon be incorporated into Redlands’ commercial citrus operations, which span more than 190 acres across 17 groves.

“The whole goal is to have these trees here for another 120, 130 years and producing,” said Michael Day, chair of the Citrus Preservation Commission, during public comments at the Jan. 21 meeting.

Meritage Homes, which purchased the land in 2022, began removing the existing trees in late May as part of its commitment to transfer the land to the city. The new trees are expected to be delivered and planted in mid-June, with escrow anticipated to close by August, according to city spokesperson Carl Baker.

The land will be conserved in perpetuity, with the city using proceeds from its 2012 sale of Palmetto Grove to fund the purchase. In addition to the grove, Redlands will receive 15 shares of Redlands Water Company stock — assets officials say are difficult to appraise but highly valuable for their ability to deliver water directly to city treatment plants.

“I have to think that the 15 water shares are worth a lot more than $100,000,” Council member Paul Barich said, referencing his past experience reviewing and selling such shares while on the council. “So I think the city is getting a very good deal out of this.”

City staff said no new personnel will be required to manage the grove, which will be farmed using the same practices that have sustained Redlands’ citrus program without general fund support since 1968.