BERLIN, Conn. (June 8, 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 Salem, the energy company is trimming or removing trees along 63 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 Manager of Vegetation Management in Connecticut 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 September. Roads where work is being done include State Routes 82 and 85; Forsyth, Darling, Gungy, Old Colchester, Old New London, White Birch and Woodchuck roads; Harris Road and Harris Road Extension, Skyline Drive, Syleo Lane and Lake View Avenue.

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 Town of Salem Tree Warden Tony Gallicchio at 860-377-3374 or Eversource arborist Susan Stotts at 860-665-2037. 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. For details on the company’s comprehensive vegetation management program, please visit Eversource.com.  

Mitch Gross 

(860) 665-5221