Commission asks staff to follow up after power-company tree clearing left debris along M 59 trail

San Miguel County Open Space Commission members on Sept. 22 raised concerns after recent power-company tree clearing along the M 59 trail left cut trees and debris scattered in and near the trail corridor.

Commissioners and members who walked the trail said crews cut trees close to power lines and left trees, stumps and log piles that appear to remain on site. Planning staff member Kaye Simonson (as referenced in the meeting) confirmed the work was done by the power company for wildfire mitigation and said the utility had not required permits under county planning rules because the clearing occurred under its lines.

Commissioners asked county staff to follow up with the power company to confirm whether there is an agreed follow-up plan to remove chipping and debris from the open-space trail, noting that large logs on the far side of the river may be difficult to remove and could require special logistics. One commissioner said the county typically requires utilities to remove chipping material after such work and requested staff to verify whether that condition applies here.

County staff agreed to seek answers and to report back on whether the company will clean up the cleared material or whether county crews will need to arrange removal.