Complicated Issue Generates Different Opinions

By Kurt Steele

The most recent chapter of contentious roadway tree trimming by Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) in both Norfolk and the state continues to unfold without a clear end so far.

Following major power outages due to damage from hurricane Irene in 2011, Governor Malloy contended that there was “precious little doubt that the state needs to be more aggressive in trimming trees near power lines.”

From that exhortation came various legislative and regulatory actions that led CL&P and the state’s smaller power utility to be more aggressive in their tree and vegetation trimming. Among other things, state law now allows them to trim branches and remove whole trees within eight feet of each side of the power lines.

More recently, Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has learned at hearings it has conducted that individuals, including property owners, tree wardens, environmental advocates, elected officials, and members of the Governorís Vegetation Management Task Force, are strongly against the more aggressive tree trimming activities underway.

In response, PURA asked the two utilities to voluntarily suspend their stepped-up tree trimming plans while PURA investigates the current situation. PURA Chairman Arthur H. House said, “We need a time-out to balance competing needs. One, as established by law, is Connecticutís demonstrated need for more aggressive tree trimming to secure the reliability of vital utility services. The second need is to avoid unnecessary eradication of trees and instead proceed with selective trimming.”

Norfolk resident Martha Klein, who is on the Executive Committee of the Connecticut Sierra Club, testified at a recent PURA hearing that she agreed that some tree trimming is necessary where trees are sick or a limb is close to power lines. But, she said, “Selective trimming is very different from wholesale cutting of large and healthy trees just because they are within the 16-foot cutting zone.”

Klein argued that indiscriminate cutting opens up the forest canopy and encourages the growth of invasive plants. These plants weaken remaining trees, which become a threat to power lines. While scenic beauty is not her primary concern, that sentiment was well represented at the hearing.

In favor of more aggressive cutting, First Selectman Sue Dyer observed, “The reality is that Norfolk is a town with many old trees near the end of their life span. For safety, and to reduce tree-related power outrages, periodic trimming and sometimes significant tree removal is necessary. First selectmen and mayors from Norfolk and 19 other Northwest towns have recently advised the governor that they oppose proposed legislation limiting more aggressive trimming.”

A related trimming program is run by the town in which the road crew periodically mows grass and brush at the side of roadways in order to keep driveway sight lines open and road surfaces free from overgrowth. Although the town does not have a “Do Not Trim” list, residents may contact the Selectmen’s office with any concerns.