Photo courtesy of Richard Byrd The iconic ivy that has grown on the south side of the Douglass House Apartment building for 40 years was recently removed. The building’s insurance provider determined the ivy to be a fire fuel source and a hazard to the safety of the residents.

HOUGHTON – The ivy that has adorned the south wall of the Douglass House building on Shelden Avenue for more than 40 years has been removed, according to Robert (Bubba) Megowan, who owns the building, which provides downtown housing for senior citizens.

Megowan said the ivy was removed for insurance purposes. “Unfortunately, my insurance company told me it had to be removed,” said Megowan.

Megowan believes the new rule originated with the recent wildfires in California, where it was decided that ivy on a building was a fuel source.

“Its 100% insurance,” Megowan said. “It’s happening around the country. I talked to some friends of mine in Ann Arbor and it’s the same thing there. They didn’t do it last year, the insurance company hadn’t brought it up here yet.”

Megowan said his insurance agent talked to him about the ivy six months ago. He added he would have loved to keep the ivy, because it was so beautiful, adding he planted it more than 40 years ago.

The Douglass House dates back to the 1850s and has undergone multiple renovations over the years. The last major renovation was completed in early 1984 when it became designated for senior housing apartments.

“It’s all about insurance,” said Megowan. “It’s all about fire safety, safety of the senior citizens, and that’s the most important part of the building is keeping it safe for the seniors.”