Signs of Decay Found Inside Tree That Killed Woman

Officials are investigating the incident that occurred on Friday, July 5, in which a basswood tree fell onto a city trail and claimed the life of Eden Prairie resident Nina Blacklow Mackay.

Mackay was actively involved in the Eden Prairie community. She had been a dedicated city commission member for several years. MacKay will be deeply missed and the city sends its deepest condolences to the MacKay family and friends, according to a statement from the city.

Preliminary observations indicate the 90-year-old basswood tree appeared healthy from the outside, with no obvious signs of disease.  However, observations of the fallen tree’s interior indicate the base of the tree had been compromised by decay which was undetectable from the exterior, according to the city of Eden Prairie. 

As a standard, the city employs one full time Forestry Technician and two seasonal Tree Inspectors (May-October) to actively seek out diseased and hazardous trees for removal.

In addition, the city employs one full time Park Maintenance staff member assigned as a Trail Crew Lead, who is actively on the trails throughout the summer, to oversee trail maintenance and identify hazardous trees for removal.

In 2012, more than 1,000 diseased and hazardous trees were removed from city property.

With thousands of trees in Eden Prairie, public observations are extremely helpful to city staff working to identify hazardous trees, especially after storm events. The Parks and Recreation Department encourages the public to report non-emergency tree concerns immediately, using the EP SEE CLICK FIX mobile application or online at edenprairie.org/epseeclickfix.

Also See:

• Family Identifies Eden Prairie Woman Killed By Tree
• Funeral Planned for Nina Mackay
• Medical Examiner Rules Death of Nina Mackay an Accident