Scottsdale seeks to remove 130 trees near powerlines this month
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Scottsdale is partnering with the Salt River Project to remove about 130 trees, officials there say, that are dangerously encroaching on powerlines. Trees more suitable for the respective areas will replace those removed at a ratio of three new trees for each removed, city officials say.
The “Right Tree, Right Place” program helps SRP maintain electric reliability, ensure public safety and work toward the goal of adding shade and reducing the urban heat island effect. Heat islands are urbanized areas that experience higher temperatures than outlying areas.
This program also reduces the cost of managing vegetation, saving taxpayers money, city officials report.
“Trees play an important role in shaping the character of Scottsdale. For 40 years, the city has been recognized as a ‘Tree City USA’ by the Arbor Day Foundation,” said Brett Jackson, parks and recreation manager. “Having nearly 400 new trees planted in Scottsdale will help that legacy to continue.”
Branches that infringe upon power lines can cause power outages and fires, so SRP officials suggest trimming and prunes trees to avoid danger. But trimming and pruning can also be detrimental to a tree’s health and requires ongoing maintenance. As a solution, SRP plants power-line friendly trees of a more suitable height for those areas. Removed trees will be made into wood chips and compost.
The program, funded by SRP, will begin with tree removal in October. Replanting is expected to be complete in the spring. The extra trees with be planted in other places along public streets and in parks, providing beauty and additional shade canopy around Scottsdale.
Work in project areas will occur in phases and is primarily contained to city parks and along public streets. These maps show where the trees that affect power lines will be removed and replaced:
Area 1: Thomas Road to Loop 202; Loop 101 to 64th Street
Area 2: Chaparral to Indian School roads; 86th to 79th streets
Area 3: Chaparral and Agua Linda parks
Area 4: McDowell Mountain Ranch and Cholla parksFor more information on Scottsdale’s Right Tree, Right Place project areas, call 480-312-3111.
Editor’s note: This story first appeared at the city of Scottsdale website and was penned by Holly Walter, Scottsdale public affairs supervisor.
