Hooksett grants Eversource permission to notify property owners for scenic‑road tree trimming and hazard removals

Marissa Del Corso, regional arborist for Eversource, described two distinct programs on the scenic stretch of Goffstown Road: the cyclical maintenance trimming that reestablishes clearances around distribution lines, and a hazard tree removal program for dead, dying, diseased or defected trees.

Del Corso said the maintenance trimming clears 8 feet to the side, 15 feet above and 10 feet below primary distribution lines and that Eversource generally leaves alive, healthy trees or limbs larger than 4 inches in diameter. She said hazard removals are documented by a patroller and that the company has identified 26 trees along the road that are mostly dead ash attributed to emerald ash borer.

On process, Del Corso explained that maintenance trimming typically proceeds after a town permission step for scenic roads; Eversource sends a 45‑day mailer to property owners in the work area and treats no response as assent for the trimming program. For hazard‑tree removal, she said “we need specific written consent from every property owner where those trees reside.” She also said trees identified for removal are marked with a blue‑and‑white checkered tape and will be visible from the road.

Commissioners asked about timeline, damage to stone walls, whether the company could meet with local foresters, and whether the work would recur. Del Corso said the trimming and hazard removals are normally part of a 4‑ to 5‑year cycle and she offered to meet on site or review specific trees with local conservation representatives.

Action and outcome: A motion to give Eversource permission to notify property owners and proceed with the 45‑day mailers and hazard‑tree consent notifications was made and seconded. Commissioners discussed bat habitat concerns and the option of involving Bear Paw or another expert for additional review. The motion passed by voice vote.

Operational details recorded in the meeting: - Eversource identified 26 trees as hazard removals along the scenic road (majority dead ash). - Maintenance clearance: 8 feet lateral, 15 feet overhead, 10 feet below distribution lines. - Hazard removals require written consent from each property owner; maintenance trimming uses a 45‑day mailer process. - Eversource marked identified trees with exclusive blue‑and‑white checkered tape for public visibility.

The company left a map and a list of addresses for hazard removals with town staff and offered to meet with commission members or local foresters to review specific trees before removals begin.