April 14 6-8 pm at Amherst Town Hall
In response to the extensive clear-cutting that Eversource proposes in our area, Senator Comerford and Representative Domb worked to secure a community meeting with Eversource. We are all encouraged to attend.
Meeting Information
Topic: Eversource’s clear-cutting proposal for project titled “WT-11 Transmission Right-of-Way Reliability Program (TRRP) Project”
Date & Time: April 14, 6:00-8:00pm
Location: Town Room at the Amherst Town Hall
Who should attend: Everyone who is interested
Background
In a project that’s currently under review with the state, Eversource proposes to clear-cut 278-acres in our eleven Western MA towns. This particular project has been generating a lot of public concern, in part because it impacts sensitive areas such as the convergence of Amethyst and Buffam Brooks. Yet, it’s just one of about 20 similar projects that Eversource plans in Western MA over the next seven years, totalling approximately 2000 acres. So, although the official comment period for the project under review closed in November, Senator Comerford and Representative Domb will host this additional chance for our voices to be heard.
Eversource’s proposed clear-cutting runs along their powerlines, widening the cleared corridor within their right-of-way. The intent is to prevent trees from contacting powerlines, which is of course a worthy goal. But Eversource’s proposal targets huge numbers of trees that, by their own figures, wouldn’t reach the powerlines. The indiscriminate cutting would unnecessarily damage state-designated Priority Habitats for rare species and other natural habitats; state-designated Outstanding Water Resources and drinking water supplies, wetlands, and riverfront areas; and Article 97 Open Space and other sensitive and recreational lands.
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