"Climate Change Threatens DC's Cherry Blossoms: Impact on Peak Bloom and Loss of Beloved 'Stumpy'"
Washington, D.C., is set to lose over 100 iconic cherry trees, including the beloved "Stumpy," as part of a multiyear restoration of the Tidal Basin, with the deteriorated seawall being replaced to prevent daily flooding. The $113 million renovation project aims to benefit both visitors and the trees, with the removed trees being turned into mulch to protect the remaining ones. While the loss of "Stumpy" has sparked social media tributes, the National Arboretum plans to clone part of its genetic material for future planting at the Tidal Basin.