Potential road hazards posed by dead trees along some California highways, especially in the sierra, have prompted Caltrans to get rid of them. That includes trees on private land - at no cost.
Caltrans has already removed 107,000 trees near California highways, trees that were killed by drought and bark beetle infestation.
"We're now addressing those that may be off of state property," says Patrick Olsen with Caltrans.
He says hazardous trees are being marked with orange paint by certified Caltrans arborists. Then Permission to Enter forms will be sent to affected property owners one to six months after trees are marked.
"We are sending out notices via mail," says Olsen. "We're also having a door-hanging campaign. If you have a tree on your property that may be suspect, you'll be receiving a notice there."
The agency expects to take out another 54,000 trees by next summer. Removal work will begin after the Labor Day Holiday.
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