To The Editor:

For readers who have been following the saga of trying to protect our trees and woodlands along the high voltage transmission lines, surprise news came from the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) last week: the Commission has opened up its 2005 transmission line vegetation management policy to public review.

An excerpt from the PSC press release:

“Albany, NY—04/15/10—The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today commenced a proceeding to consider electric utility transmission right-of-way (ROW) management practices. As a result of its decision, the Commission will seek comments on the implementation of utility ROW management practices and the contribution of ROW management to the safety and reliability of the state’s electric transmission system. In addition, comments will be sought on the balancing needed to be achieved by these utility practices of the concerns of ratepayers, neighboring property owners, the public, and other interested parties.”

“[…] These concerns have largely focused on the trimming and removal of trees and other vegetation by utilities in their transmission rights-of-way. Those objecting to the utilities’ practices cite the unwanted aesthetic impacts associated with the utilities’ ROW work, as well as noise, erosion and decreased property value as potential results. Expressions of concern have taken many forms including individual complaints to this department, letters from public officials, municipal resolutions and proposed state legislation. “

Comments from the public may be submitted to the PSC by letter or via email. Email to secr...@dps.state.ny.us using “Case 10-E-0155” as the subject line. All comments are due by June 16, 2010.

Received comments associated with this case can be viewed at the PSC website. Go to http://www.dps.state.ny.us/New_Search.html and perform a search for “Case 10-E-0155” to link to the materials. Anyone wishing to respond or reply to a comment made by another party may do so through reply comments (which are to be filed via email by July 6, 2010).

In addition to the submission of comments, the PSC is considering public hearings although none have been scheduled yet. Please contact the PSC directly to urge them to hold public sessions in Westchester County. Use email address (above) or write or call: Public Service Commission, 14th floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223 (518-474-2500).

Read the full press release and continue to follow details of this matter on the Irvington Tree Preservation Project’s website: irvtrees.blogspot.com.

Mark Gilliland

GEF LORAX working group, Chairperson

Irvington, NY