Auburn University: Toomer's Corner oaks poisoned - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Auburn University: Toomer's Corner oaks poisoned

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By Web Staff –  email

AUBURN, AL  (WXTX)  -  Auburn University reports the old oaks located on Toomer's Corner have been poisoned.

The university confirmed Wednesday afternoon that an herbicide commonly used to kill trees was deliberately applied to the trees.

We are told lethal amounts of the herbicide Spike 80DF were used.

Experts believe the trees are not likely to survive and there is little chance to save the trees.

Auburn University officials were alerted to the situation after a person called into Paul Finebaum's radio broadcast on January 27 saying he had poisoned the trees. 

The Paul Finebaum Show is a nationally syndicated radio broadcast.

News Leader 9 is following this story. We'll have a live report on News Leader 9 at  6:00 p.m. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Auburn police at (334) 501-3110 or anonymously by voice or text on the tip line at (334) 246-1391.

Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved.

From Jay Gogue, President, Auburn University

"We will take every step we can to save the Toomer's oaks, which have been the home of countless celebrations and a symbol of the Auburn spirit for generations of Auburn students, fans, alumni and the community."

"It is understandable to feel outrage in reaction to a malicious act of vandalism. However, we should live up to the example we set in becoming national champions and the beliefs expressed in our Auburn Creed. Individuals act alone, not on behalf of anyone or any place, and all universities are vulnerable to and condemn such reprehensible acts."

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