Amherst Public Shade Tree Committee Approves Tree Removals for Roundabout Projects
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Meeting Type:
Shade Tree Commission
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Meeting Date:
08/13/2024
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Recording Published:
08/15/2024
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Duration:
17 Minutes
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Hampshire County
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Towns:
Amherst
- Meeting Overview:
The Amherst Public Shade Tree Committee has approved the removal of several trees to make way for proposed roundabouts at the Heatherstone intersections with Alpine and Echo Hill. This decision was reached after a discussion and a public hearing held on August 13.
The meeting’s primary focus was on the proposed roundabout projects, which will impact a 22-inch white pine, a 5-inch catalpa, and a 6-inch Norway maple. The committee had previously conducted a site visit to assess the situation. It was noted that while the white pine does not technically fall within the road area, its proximity of only two feet from the road would likely cause significant root zone disturbance, endangering its survival. The catalpa and Norway maple are situated directly within or on the edge of the proposed roundabout sites.
During the hearing, one committee member expressed reservations about the roundabouts but ultimately acknowledged that if the projects were to proceed, the tree removals were justified. The sentiment was echoed by a resident of Alpine Drive, who supported both the roundabout project and the associated tree removals.
Following the discussion, the committee voted to accept the decision of the tree warden regarding the removal of the trees and to refrain from opposing the action. This decision was made with the understanding that the area is heavily wooded, and the removal of these specific trees would not impact the overall tree cover.
Paul Brockelman
Shade Tree Commission Officials:
Tom Lynn (ex-officio Shade Tree Committee Member), Henry Lappen
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Meeting Type:
Shade Tree Commission
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Meeting Date:
08/13/2024
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Recording Published:
08/15/2024
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Duration:
17 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Hampshire County
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Towns:
Amherst
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