When discussing the option of replacing an Oak Tree with a Pine because of the mess an Oak makes, consider this, there is no messier tree on the planet then a Pine Tree. They have three shedding periods. Not necessarily in order, pine cones of varying sizes from rice crispy size to full size. (the rice crispy size is the worse especially if you have a pool and the always loved Pine pollen that covers everything in that lovely yellow/green blanket. Later in the summer when the pine pitch starts to drip on everything under it. and finally the massive shedding of pine needles in the fall. If you think a few Acorns are a mess... you ain't seen nothing yet. Those tiny pine cones and the needles get in every crack and crevice of your house and car and they don't just blow away or roll off. So other then the fact that they stay green all winter when not covered with snow, breaking branches and the like. Pine tree would get my support for elimination anytime.