Meeting about Tree Trimming in Woodbridge

The Town of Woodbridge is hosting a second meeting for Town residents to learn about the United Illuminating’s plans for cutting and trimming trees in Woodbridge.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 15 at 7 pm at the Center Gym, 4 Meetinghouse Lane.

UI plans to begin its tree work in Woodbridge in as early as July.

After recent storms that left parts of Connecticut without power for an extended time, Governor Malloy tasked the utility companies with protecting power lines from trees. According to the report of the Two-Storm Panel (created by the governor), 90% of the power lines downed during Tropical Storm Irene were knocked over by trees.

In response, UI and CL&P drafted plans to cut trees and branches within eight feet of power lines. Many residents have expressed concern that the utilities’ plans are not nuanced enough and could damage or remove healthy and/or notable trees.

Recent legislation (but not yet signed into law by the governor) adds protections for trees on private property and requires trees to be pruned in a way that protects their structural integrity.

The utility companies are required to notify residents if they plan on cutting or trimming trees in the area. Residents may appeal a decision in writing within 10 days of receiving notice if they do not want a specific tree to be removed or trimmed.

“Our trees should be protected for their aesthetic and environmental benefits,” said First Selectman Ellen Scalettar. "At the same time, I have learned from our Tree Warden, Warren Connors, that Woodbridge does have trees that are truly hazardous - that is they pose a danger to residents and power lines, and those trees should be removed for safety reasons. The challenge is to assure that the plan categorizes trees appropriately and calls for trees to be pruned correctly.”