IAA Sets the Record Straight on "Overhead Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act"

March 19, 2012 - PRLog -- ANTIOCH, Ill. – The Illinois Arborist Association (IAA) seeks to clarify to citizens and communities the “Overhead Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act” bill currently being considered by the Illinois State Legislature. IAA President Mark Duntemann said some reactions to HB 3884 – introduced by Rep. Jack Franks, Woodstock, Ill. – unfairly questions the day-to-day efforts of utility line clearance trimmers across the state.

The bill drew additional attention following a recent Chicago Tribune editorial which read, in part, “Which trees get butchered depends on the whims of the utilities and the influence of those directly affected. Clearcut a path for power lines through a lightly populated rural area? No problem. Clearcut a swath through Burr Ridge, or a similar tree-hugging suburb, and the utilities stir up a public-relations hornet's nest.”

Duntemann responded, “Comments like these belittle the work of trained professionals – International Society of Arboriculture certified arborists – in understanding what needs to be trimmed or cut and what should be left alone. Arborists make decisions each day to benefit trees, the environment and the property values of home and business owners.”

Duntemann is not alone in voicing his displeasure. Cal Williams, manager of vegetation and safety for Corn Belt Energy, Bloomington, Ill., also believes utility workers are being unfairly criticized.

“Those working in Utility Arboriculture are made to look like they lack the education to make the correct decision on what trees should be pruned or removed,” Williams said. “It’s one thing for IAA members to not support Rep. Frank’s bill, but it should be clear Utility Arborists are making the best, not the worst, possible decisions when it comes to homeowners’ trees.”

Illinois Arborist Association background
The Illinois Arborist Association is a non-profit organization that educates members and the general public in proper tree care.  IAA supports research on trees and is based on the mission to "Foster interest, establish standards, exchange professional ideas and pursue scientific research in Arboriculture."