I've been walking with my dogs for years in the old golf course area of City Park that was damaged by flooding during Hurricane Katrina. I was so surprised almost 10 years ago to find such a spectacular natural area with beautiful old trees and all kinds of birds and other wildlife that had been inaccessible to the public right here in New Orleans.

Since then hundreds of people have been enjoying it during the week for walking, running, cycling, exercising dogs, bird watching, mountain biking, painting and fishing. Local high school and fund-raising races have been held frequently on weekends. So in the last several weeks it has been heartbreaking to watch a fence go up to keep out the public while old trees are torn down to make room for the new golf course.

City Park officials say they are getting rid of an "eyesore" since it was damaged by levee breaches in Katrina. Those of us who go there frequently know it is absolutely beautiful. I was one of the volunteers who planted the young saplings, which are no replacement for the old trees. Most vibrant cities in this country would tout and protect their natural areas so that the public would have green space to enjoy. We should, too.

Maureen E. Shea, New Orleans