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EWEB and City Coordinate Tree Puning Project February 22, 1994 Page 2 The new trimming technique helps train the tree to grow away from power lines, Douglass said. The trimming also reduces the amount of time crews will need to be in an area to prune for line clearance in the future. Although the new trimming method minimizes many of the negative health impacts to the tree, Douglass said the trees may initially appear less uniform, but that over time, they typically will grow a larger crown than a similar tree that is repeatedly pruned using the round over method. "A few trees will have to be removed because they are structurally unsafe due to excessive rot," said Johnny Medlin, maintenance support manager for the city. "If a tree has to be removed, the City will post the tree for seven days so that citizens have time to comment on the removal. If a tree has to be taken out, the City will replant two trees in the area for each one removed," continued Medlin. Employees from the two organizations have been meeting for several months as part of an on -going effort to coordinate the tree trimming programs of both agencies. Discussions have centered on environmentally sensitive tree trimming practices in street right -of -ways and finding ways to streamline and coordinate tree - trimming projects while still meeting all appropriate federal, state, and local environmental and land -use laws and regulations. The group is developing an intergovernmental agreement that outlines future approaches to tree trimming and tree planting practices. EWEB trims trees in the public right -of -way for safety and power reliability purposes, in accordance with Oregon Public Utility Commissioner requirements. The City is responsible for maintaining the trees in the public right -of -way, which includes removing dead wood that may pose a safety hazard and providing vision and sign clearance for motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. #### •