BERLIN, Conn. (September 27, 2023) – As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce tree-related power outages across the state, Eversource is addressing trees that threaten electric reliability in 131 communities this year. In Berlin, the energy company is trimming or removing trees along 55 miles of town roads. 

“Trees continue to be the primary cause of power outages, especially during a storm, so identifying weak, diseased and hazardous trees along town roads and trimming or removing them before they cause a problem is critical,” said Eversource Director of Vegetation Management Sean Redding. “While we all love our trees, we have seen firsthand the damage they can cause to the electric system. Our comprehensive and consistent tree trimming program helps to improve day-to-day reliability during all types of weather and we continue to see fewer power outages where this work has been done – that’s why this work is so vital.” 

Tree work is underway and expected to be complete by the end of December. Roads where work is being done include the Berlin Turnpike, Main and Mill streets, as well as Beckley, Middletown, North Colony, Savage Hill and Worthington Ridge roads. 

The energy company is closely coordinating its plan with community leaders and communicating with property owners to explain details of the work and their option to keep the wood cut on their property. As a reminder, all contractors carry proper identification, will never ask to enter a private residence, and there is no cost to the property owner for this work. 

Residents with questions about the roadside work can contact the Town of Berlin’s Department of Public Works at 860-828-7022 or Eversource arborist John Dyckman at 860-665-3931. Inquiries about roadside tree work can also be directed to Eversource at 844-275-3302 or by email at treeCT@Eversource.com.

In addition, the energy company reminds customers that homeowners are responsible for tree maintenance on their own property, including keeping branches away from the lower-voltage service wires connecting their homes and businesses to the main utility lines on the street. Eversource strongly recommends contacting a professional tree service to perform this work. Learn more about the company’s comprehensive vegetation management program.

Mitch Gross 

(860) 665-5221