Xcel has determined that they will use total removal all vegetation, including trees, within 20-foot swath of all transmission lines in SoGo as their approach to mitigating wildfire risks. We advocate for a more thoughtful, effective approach to wildfire mitigation. 

The Colorado State Health Improvement Plan for 2025–2029, informed by the 2023 State Health Assessment, highlights extreme heat as a public health emergency with severe and widespread health consequences.  Improving the tree canopy is one of the main strategies included in the plan to address this issue. The state's public health planning for 2025 acknowledges that rising temperatures are exacerbating chronic health issues and placing a strain on the healthcare system, particularly vulnerable population.

We have 430 ash trees on public property in Golden, plus many more on provide properties.  The ash tree makes up approximately 15% of the overall tree canopy. The City of Golden's recommendations are to treat, remove or replace trees affected by the Emerald Ash Borer. We advocate that every Ash tree removed in SoGo needs to be replaced by the city with a new tree in the same or very nearby location.