NE Valley Times

The city of Scottsdale is collaborating with SRP to remove around 130 trees that are dangerously close to power lines. These trees will be replaced by others more suited for the area, with a replacement ratio of three new trees for each one removed.

The Right Tree, Right Place program assists SRP in maintaining electric reliability and ensuring public safety while working towards adding shade and reducing the urban heat island effect. Heat islands are urbanized areas experiencing higher temperatures than surrounding regions. The initiative also lowers vegetation management costs, saving taxpayers money.

"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 infringing on power lines can cause outages and fires, prompting SRP to often trim and prune trees to prevent danger. However, trimming can harm tree health and requires ongoing maintenance. As a solution, SRP plants power-line friendly trees of appropriate height for those areas. Removed trees will be turned into wood chips and compost.

Funded by SRP, the program will start with tree removal in October. Replanting is expected to finish by spring. Additional trees will be planted along public streets and in parks across Scottsdale, providing beauty and extra shade canopy.

Work in project areas will proceed in phases, mainly focusing on city parks and public streets:

- 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 parks

Residents should not attempt tree trimming near power lines or hire contractors for work within ten feet of energized lines. For trimming near overhead lines between poles and structures on your property, contact SRP at 602-236-8888.

For more details on Scottsdale's Right Tree, Right Place project areas, call 480-312-3111.