Press Release for Residents
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — October 13, 2026 — McCormick Ranch Property Owners’ Association is evaluating changes to the approved landscape plans for the Hayden Road medians between Via de Ventura and Indian Bend after 12 additional mature Aleppo pine trees experienced significant decline.
The original landscape plans called for removing two Aleppo pines, and that work has been completed. The decline of 12 additional trees was unexpected and requires further changes to the plans. The mature pines are an important investment and contribute to the character, scale, and appearance of McCormick Ranch. MRPOA does not take their loss lightly. Staff increased irrigation in an effort to help preserve the trees.
An arborist who inspected the site observed yellowing and browning foliage, resin around holes in the bark, and woodpecker damage, signs that can be associated with bark beetle activity. The arborist’s report did conclusively confirm Mediterranean Pine Engraver. The report also describes several possible contributing stressors, including prolonged heat and drought, limited soil and water storage in the median, reflected heat, physical damage, and recent trenching that may have affected tree roots. The report concludes that the decline is best explained by the cumulative effects of these conditions rather than one confirmed cause.
Bark beetles often attack trees that are already stressed. Fading or discolored foliage, resin on the trunk, woodpecker activity, and boring dust can be signs of an infestation, but these symptoms alone do not confirm the cause. Homeowners concerned about a tree on their property should seek an assessment from a qualified arborist. Tree watering needs vary by species, soil, weather, and tree size; the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension advises watering the root zone and adjusting irrigation to site conditions.
MRPOA staff will meet with the City and the landscape architects on October 20 to evaluate replacement options. The Landscape Committee will review and vote on a recommendation at its October 22 meeting, and the Board will consider the Committee’s recommendation on October 28. Replacement species have not yet been selected. MRPOA will share further information after the review is complete.