Editor,

Thank you for the article on old growth trees on Whidbey (Sept. 4, Whidbey News-Times story). And thank you to the Park Services for what they do.

The sign near the spectacular 850-year-old Coastal Douglas Fir at Deception Pass State Park near West Beach (shown in the article photo), should be replaced by a sign with a stronger message. The current sign is gently worded to “Let It Be.” But it also shows a child hugging the tree. We have seen people climbing on it.

Can we get improved signage stating very clearly “Do not climb on this 850 year-old tree! It damages the bark.”

Timothy Hickey

Oak Harbor