AUBURN, Ala. (AP) — Auburn University officials say the oak trees at Toomer's Corner that were poisoned are now being pruned significantly for safety reasons.
The university said in a statement that a tree service contractor is removing weakened branches above the plaza and streets at the corner of College Street and Magnolia Avenue.
The work is being done now because there are fewer pedestrians on campus and less vehicle traffic.
Authorities accused Harvey Updyke of poisoning the two iconic oak trees after the Tigers beat the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2010 Iron Bowl en route to the national title.
Updyke has pleaded not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect on charges that include criminal mischief and desecrating a venerable object.




