Residents in Kelowna, B.C., are expressing their frustration and disappointment with the tree-trimming practices of FortisBC. Giulio Di Palma and his neighbors have had negative experiences with the company’s tree pruning methods, describing the results as a “total hack job” and feeling that their trees have been “brutalized”. While they support the need for safety-related tree trimming near power lines, they believe that FortisBC is not putting enough thought into the process and is cutting off too much of the trees unnecessarily. This has left many homeowners concerned about the health and stability of their pruned trees, with some fearing that they may pose a safety risk in the future.
Gordy Charles, a homeowner in the area, voiced his dissatisfaction with FortisBC’s tree trimming practices, pointing out that some of the work appeared to have been done without consideration for the trees’ health and aesthetics. He expressed concern for the well-being of his trees, which have been significantly pruned by the company. Charles also emphasized the importance of communication and notification from FortisBC before they begin pruning trees in a given area, suggesting that property owners should be given advance notice in order to make informed decisions about their own arborist services. He highlighted the need for better public relations and communication from the company to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Rob Collins, another resident in the neighbourhood, raised concerns about the potential safety risks posed by the trimmed trees. He noted that some trees had been pruned in a way that left them unbalanced and vulnerable to falling during strong winds, potentially causing damage to nearby properties. In response to these concerns, FortisBC emphasized their commitment to safety when trimming trees near power lines, as falling or touching trees can lead to power outages, property damage, and fire risks. The company stated that they have multiple tree trimming crews working in various communities to prevent trees from growing into power lines, and encouraged property owners to plant trees at a safe distance from power infrastructure.
The frustrations of residents like Di Palma, Charles, and Collins highlight the need for clear communication and consideration in tree trimming practices near power lines. While safety is a priority for FortisBC, residents are calling for more thoughtful and careful pruning methods to prevent unnecessary damage to trees. The lack of notification and consultation before tree trimming has left many homeowners feeling uneasy about the state of their trees and the potential risks they may pose in the future. Moving forward, residents hope that FortisBC will improve their communication efforts and work closely with property owners to ensure that tree trimming is done in a way that prioritizes both safety and the health of the trees. By working together, residents and utility companies can find a balance that supports tree safety and community well-being.
