Dominion Energy to begin cutting down palmetto trees on Isle of Palms

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD) Almost 300 palmetto trees will be removed from the Isle of Palms for safety from powerlines.

Dominion Energy has identified hundreds of trees to be removed across the island because of their proximity to a power line.

Every five years tree removals are required for ensured use of powerlines around the island. Recently, Dominion Energy removed and trimmed trees from Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island, and now it’s Isle of Palms turn.

“Its a balance between consistency of service and reliability of service versus aesthetics,” said Isle of Palms Mayor Phillip Pounds.

About a third of Isle of Palms powerlines are underground. Dominion Energy identified 292 palmetto trees for removal that will begin November 11th. Trees that will be coming down are currently marked with a red spot.

“Palmetto trees that have grown too close to overgrown lines are both a fire hazard and an issue of employee and public safety,” said Dominion spokesperson Paul Fischer.

The project will take several months but is set to be finished before next year’s hurricane season begins.

“Trees and tree limbs are the number one reason for power outages across our system so particularly this is important throughout the year but especially during hurricane season,” said Fischer.

Some city council members were disappointed about the high number of trees cut down. Council member Jan Anderson asked if they could be replaced with more trees away from hazardous areas which a Dominion Energy rep answered they would take that request back to the company.

“It’s really about consistency of service from dominion, making sure the lines are clear and there is nothing messing with the transmission of electricity to our homes and businesses.” said Pounds.

This is the first phase of tree removal. In the second phase an additional 200 trees will be scheduled for removal.