Wendy Tokuda Liberates Oak with DFSC Cost-Share Program Funds

Wendy Tokuda shows a freshly pulled acacia sprout with her weed wrench.

Wendy Tokuda, known as a local TV anchor, now works hard in retirement using a massive weed wrench to pull out acacia saplings one by one. “I used to think maybe this work is hopeless, what am I doing?” says Wendy. “If we go two years we won't be able to pull the acacias and their roots will take hold.” 

Now she sees her effort does make a difference. Using cost share funds from DFSC, she and her volunteers have transformed an area previously a briar patch in a Priority Hazard Zone of the Oakland hills to an open area revealing a mountain bike trail and newly saved native oak tree. 

The “liberated” oak tree was found during the clearing process. A large acacia had fallen on the oak and damaged it. “It will look like Dr. Seuss for a few years, but will come back,” Wendy explained.

From left to right, Wendy Tokuda, DFSC Board Member Tom Gandesbery, DFSC Executive Director Holly Million and DFSC Program Coordinator Joelle Fraser chat about the benefit of the Cost Share Program.

Joelle Fraser and Wendy Tokuda stand in front of the oak tree saved while clearing the area of invasive and fire prone acacias.