The Wharton County Commissioners received a grim report on the courthouse’s 102-year-old pecan trees. Agriculture Extension Agent Corrie Bowen declared the trees beyond saving, citing severe rot, mower damage, and improper pruning among 20 trees. The committee recommended immediate removal for safety. A public hearing is set for September 9, but dead limbs will be removed immediately to prevent accidents. Removing all trees could cost $16,000. Though the trees were initially well-placed, years of concrete and water restrictions have made survival impossible.