Photo provided

On Monday, September 13, Horticultural Services, Ltd. began the last phase of the restoration tree project along the north shore of Lake Cascade. Sponsored by the Orinda Garden Club in conjunction with the centennial celebration of the Garden Club of America and with the consent of the Orinda Country Club, which owns the lake, the tree restoration will include pruning of over 100 trees along the lake front. Fifteen Cork Oaks (Quercus Suber) were planted by OGC in the early '40's.

The original California native oaks, laurels, madrones, maples, alders and elders were planted by Edward DeLaveaga when he developed the lake in 1922. In the early 40's the Garden Club received permission from OCC to enhance the planting around the lake and again in 1965 the ladies received money from Richfield 011 for civic beautification and planted more trees including weeping willows, acacias, scotch broom, oleanders, manzanitas, birch, bottle brush, toyon and climbing Banksia roses.

Lake Cascade is a popular meeting place for runners, walkers and bird watchers. Protected by California Fish and Game, it has also become a popular bird sanctuary.

The clearing and pruning has enhanced the area and provided greater views of Orinda's hills and wooded landscapes. Money for the project was raised by members of the Orinda Garden Club through contributions, special events and a successful silent auction.