ODOT to begin last phase of Hwy. 20 tree removal work

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- After getting the "green light" from researchers to proceed, ODOT said Friday it is beginning the final phase of the U.S. Highway 20 tree removal process west of Sisters.

Those trees were compromised by the herbicide Perspective and were felled to ensure public safety in the highway corridor, the agency said.

About 2,100 such trees within a 150-foot-wide path on both sides of the highway were felled last year. Some were destined for use as wood products under guidance from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Others were cut and left in place to provide habitat for wildlife.

Researchers from Oregon State University have determined that there is no harm in leaving the grindings from the stump removal in place, so now ODOT is moving forward to grind out the stumps that were left from the felling project. 

Grinding out the stumps will reduce the risk of vehicles who have left the road from striking the stump or snagging their undercarriage on the stump and rolling the vehicle.

Crews working to remove the stumps will begin their effort on Monday morning and will continue for at least six weeks.

Motorists can expect to see equipment and personnel in close vicinity to the highway and anticipate delays of no greater than 20 minutes, ODOT said.