In a much-needed renovation effort, Washington, D.C. is preparing to bid farewell to over 100 of its beloved cherry trees, including the well-known "Stumpy." The removal of these iconic trees is part of a long-overdue restoration project for the Tidal Basin, as reported by the Associated Press.

The restoration work is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2024, focusing on the replacement of the deteriorated seawall surrounding the Tidal Basin. Over the years, the existing seawall has fallen into disrepair, resulting in the flooding of the area twice a day at high tide, including the roots of some cherry trees. This repeated inundation has led to the death of entire stretches of trees.

National Park Service spokesman for the National Mall, Mike Litterst, explained that the renovation project aims to address these issues and protect the remaining cherry trees. Litterst emphasizes the benefits the rebuilt seawall will bring to both visitors and the trees themselves. The project, estimated to cost $113 million, is expected to take approximately three years to complete, as announced to Fox News Digital.

The restoration plans entail the removal of 300 trees, with almost half being cherry trees, according to the Associated Press. These trees will be turned into mulch, which will then be used to safeguard the remaining trees. Once the seawall is rebuilt, 277 cherry trees will be replanted in place of those removed.

While the removal of the cherry trees is necessary for the preservation of the remaining ones, it has sparked an outpouring of emotions on social media, particularly surrounding the imminent loss of "Stumpy." Known for its smaller, gnarled appearance, "Stumpy" gained significant popularity in 2020. Fans have paid tribute to the tree by placing tributes at its base and sharing them on social media.

Local sports teams, such as the Washington Capitals and Washington Nationals, have also paid their respects to "Stumpy." The Capitals shared a picture of an employee holding a special "Cherry Blossom Jersey" next to the beloved tree, while the Nationals brought two of their Presidents Race mascots, Teddy and George, to bid farewell. Both teams expressed their condolences through social media posts.

Although "Stumpy's" days in the Tidal Basin are limited, his legacy will live on genetically. The National Arboretum plans to clone a portion of "Stumpy's" genetic material and eventually plant the cloned trees at the Tidal Basin, as reported by the Associated Press.

The restoration of the Tidal Basin and the removal of these cherished cherry trees mark a significant step towards preserving the iconic beauty of Washington, D.C.'s landscape. While it is undoubtedly a bittersweet moment for many, the project is crucial to ensure the longevity and survival of this cherished natural spectacle.