STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Oklahoma State University is ripping out trees in the name of preserving the environment.
The project to remove non-native trees from the university's land began in February and could take two years to complete.
Wildfires last year scorched thousands of acres across Oklahoma and red cedar trees have gotten the blame for much of the damage. The invasive trees have low branches and are rich in flammable oils, which help fires spread. They also consume a lot of groundwater.
OSU plans to spend $485,000 to eradicate the trees from its lands, more than 6,600 acres.