Dear SLO REP Supporters,
In a joint news release from the City of San Luis Obispo and SLO REP on August 12, 2026, it was announced that an effort is being made to save the large oak tree currently on our future theatre site. See below for more information. We are cautiously optimistic that this late-breaking involvement by volunteer arborists will provide a path toward saving the tree, by possibly relocating it.
We look forward to sharing more news about our new theatre soon. Thank you for your support.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUST 12, 2026
City, SLO REP and Scientists Try to Save Large Oak Tree
Science-based process will give the oak tree its best chance of surviving while enabling theatre construction to move ahead on schedule.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — Expert arborists this week are launching a science-based plan to try to save (and possibly move) the large oak tree currently located on the future site of the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre (SLO REP).
The City of San Luis Obispo, SLO REP, renowned arborists, and generous private donors are working together to prepare the tree for construction activity and possible move nearby, likely to the lawn at Mission Plaza near the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA).
The process is being guided by the volunteer efforts of tree biologist Matt Ritter, who is also a Cal Poly professor and director of the university’s Plant Conservatory, and tree-care and transplant expert Brian Kempf, who is the co-founder and director of the Urban Tree Foundation.
“Large trees this size, including live oaks, have been successfully transplanted elsewhere,” Ritter said. “While success is not guaranteed and transplanting a tree of this size is a complex undertaking, we are determined to give it its best chance of survival. The multi-stage transplant process starts with preparing the tree’s roots before we can try to move it.”
While the large oak tree was originally included in designs for the new SLO REP theatre, it was approved for removal in February after an assessment determined it was unlikely to survive the construction. The new theatre represents more than a decade of planning and preparation and is a significant investment in the cultural vitality of San Luis Obispo. The City has set aside $6.7 million in grant funding for the estimated $22.5 million project. When opened, the theatre is expected to draw 50,000 patrons downtown and generate more than $5 million in annual economic impact.
After learning the large oak tree was slated for removal, concerned community members contacted Ritter to explore alternatives.
A Multi-Stage, Science-Based Process with Uncertain Outcomes
City staff are assessing the Mission Plaza site and will assist in preparing the tree for transportation, with guidance from Ritter and Kempf. The City will take a lead role in moving the tree safely.
Just like preparing for a marathon, the tree needs preparation before a move. This starts with deep-soak irrigation, followed by selective root pruning.
“We are hopeful that the methodology being applied will enable the tree to survive and we are inspired by the collaboration, creativity and generosity that’s making this all possible,” said Robert Hill, the City’s Sustainability and Natural Resources Official. “While the outcome is still uncertain, this remarkable effort reflects our community’s ongoing commitment to cultural vitality and environmental stewardship. While work is underway, safety will be our top priority.”
The City began deep soak irrigation with 2,000 gallons of water on Friday, August 7, guided by Ritter and Kempf, to help fully hydrate and stabilize the root ball, making it much less likely to break apart or suffer shock when the tree is dug up and moved later.
City tree maintenance staff and arborists led by Ritter and Kempf will begin selective root pruning on Thursday, August 13, which involves cutting back specific roots using chainsaws and other power tools. This part of the process encourages new, compact feeder roots to grow close to the trunk over the next few months.
After this is complete, deep soak irrigation will continue and the tree will be monitored for several months before transport day, which is not yet determined. The transplant strategy is designed to align with SLO REP’s construction timeline.
This type of transplant has occurred successfully before. As one example, League City (Texas) successfully relocated a similarly sized oak tree about 1,500 feet away.
“We’re grateful for Dr. Ritter’s involvement. This has the real potential for a win-win for the community and SLO REP,” said Pam Nichter, SLO REP Board President. His approach respects both the desire to save this tree and SLO REP’s intended construction timeline.”
###
ABOUT SAN LUIS OBISPO REPERTORY THEATRE
Established in 1947 as SLO Little Theatre, San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre (SLO REP) is one of the country’s oldest regional theatres and San Luis Obispo County’s only nonprofit professional theatre company. In addition to producing year-round professional theatre, SLO REP operates the Academy of Creative Theatre, providing education and performance opportunities for young people ages 3–18. SLO REP is dedicated to connecting people through powerful storytelling that opens the mind, nourishes the soul, and illuminates our shared humanity. For more information, visit www.slorep.org.
ABOUT THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
Known for its high quality of life, natural beauty, and collaborative spirit, San Luis Obispo remains committed to strengthening community wellbeing and longterm resilience for all community members. It has a fullservice City government that provides essential services such as public safety, water, sewer, and transportation. The City also leads work that supports community-led priorities, such as cultural vitality, diversity and inclusion, climate action, sustainable infrastructure, and climate action. For more information, visit www.slocity.org.
