A Mongolian oak, listed in the Red Book of the Trans-Baikal Territory, has successfully survived the winter and produced green leaves after being transplanted in September 2024. The tree’s survival marks a positive outcome following concerns about its relocation.

The oak, previously located at the intersection of Bogomyagkova and Nechaeva streets, was moved due to demolition work. It was replanted within the same fenced area, closer to Nechaeva Street.

Concerns were raised in the fall by People’s Front expert Natalya Chashchina, who noted that transplanting a mature tree requires three months of preparation and is best done in the spring. Despite this, the transplantation proceeded in September.

The tree was originally planted approximately 70 years ago by local resident Semyon Osipovich Neskromnykh, who cultivated around 60 rare and diverse trees along the fence line.

In 2012, discussions arose about the oak’s future, with the botanical garden expressing interest in acquiring the tree. However, the necessary equipment for the transplant was unavailable. The State Forestry Service of Trans-Baikal voiced concerns at the time, suggesting that moving the oak could be fatal.

Earlier proposals from biologists and the public advocated for granting the then half-century-old oak the status of a natural monument.