Fort Fisher State Historic Site removes patch of yaupon over safety concerns

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Fort Fisher Historic Site removed a swath of yaupon bushes and wax myrtle trees recently. The historic site said they were cut down over safety concerns. 

After consideration from NC State Parks, Division of Coastal Management, and the Wildlife Resources Commission, the decision was made to cut down a half-acre of yaupon bushes and wax myrtles next to the Fort Fisher Monument. 

The patch will be replanted with live oak trees and native grasses. 

Site Manager Jim Steele said while the vegetation was beautiful, it presented serious safety concerns. 

“We are looking at planting up to 180 to 200 live oak trees out here,” Steele said. “The nice thing about a forest, it doesn’t leave hiding places so much, and there’s still lines of sight.” 

Steele said he’s currently working with a farmer in Pender County that’s grows live oaks specifically from Fort Fisher.