James Island Residents Advocate for Change in Tree Trimming Practices
Residents of the Riverland Terrace neighborhood on James Island, South Carolina have voiced complaints amidst a new round of tree trimming carried out by Dominion Energy. The energy company has been reducing trees in the locale due to the branches growing into contact with power lines, which can lead to power outages. However, some residents argue that this activity is detrimental to the aesthetics and natural environment of the area.
A Century-old tradition
The Riverland Terrace neighborhood is renowned for its large trees, such as oaks and magnolias. According to one resident, Kev Hollo, many of these trees have graced the neighborhood for a hundred years, and are a significant factor for Riverland Terrace’s prestige. Following a recent award from the neighborhood’s Garden Club for the best-looking tree, dismay was caused as the award-winning oak tree was trimmed down just two days later.
Advocacy for change
A founder of the Woodland Shores Road Coalition, Adam Friend, has taken on the role of local advocate, pushing for change with regards to the practices of Dominion Energy. He is advocating for the power lines to be placed underground, claiming this as a sustainable solution for both the local aesthetics and the potential for power outages.
Future concerns
Friend cites concerns about the future state of Charleston due to issues such as rising sea levels, stating that the trees can absorb a significant amount of water. “The most important thing for me and the trees is that they have been here for longer than we have. We have a sinking city and a rising water climate. Can there be any other worse scenario?” he says.
Response from Dominion Energy
In response to the complaints, Dominion energy confirmed their commitment to safety, and explained that the distance of trees from overhead lines is an issue of both public and employee safety. Their written statement declares their adherence to utility pruning standards outlined and approved by the International Society of Arboriculture.
The energy company also noted their willingness to consider placing lines underground, provided the engineering is technically feasible, system reliability is not compromised, and there is a mechanism in place to cover the additional cost.
Final words
“We’re trying to save trees in an area that’s known for our trees,” expresses Adam Friend. The debate between preserving the natural beauty of the environment and ensuring the efficient delivery of energy to customers is a complicated one. While the future of these century-old trees hangs in the balance, the residents of Riverland Terrace, such as Hollo and Friend, continue to advocate for a shift in approach.
