Wake Forest’s E. Carroll Joyner Park is actively maintaining its historic pecan grove for future enjoyment. The Town’s Urban Forestry Division, in partnership with Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources, has removed three aging pecan trees in the past three years due to safety concerns. At the same time, they’ve planted new trees to sustain the grove. Recently, six Caddo pecan trees were added, with plans for their long-term growth.

“The trees we removed since 2022 met our risk threshold for removal, per International Society of Arboriculture guidelines,” said Urban Forestry Program Manager Luke Devores, according to a statement obtained by the Town of Wake Forest. The focus is not solely on replacing the older trees. In addition to this year's planting, 12 young trees were introduced last year, ensuring the grove’s continued growth for the future.

The effort goes beyond replacing old trees with new ones. The town also implements a regular pruning schedule to remove any potentially hazardous branches, helping to ensure safety for park visitors while promoting the trees' growth and health. This ongoing maintenance is part of a planned approach to preserve the grove, which has been a part of the community since the Great Depression.

In the fall, the pecan trees in the grove produce their annual crop, and the Town invites community members to gather the nuts. This tradition provides an opportunity to engage with the park’s ongoing legacy. The harvest of locally grown pecans is expected to continue for generations.

For more info on the maintenance and management of the Joyner Park Pecan Grove, or to plan your upcoming nut-gathering adventure, check out the official Town of Wake Forest website.