New tree list for planting near utility wires released by Connecticut College Arboretum and Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
Media contacts: Glenn D. Dreyer, director, Connecticut College Arboretum; 860-439-2144; gddre@conncoll.edu Jeffery S. Ward, chief scientist, Department of Forestry and Horticulture, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station; 203-974-8495; Jeffery.Ward@ct.gov Updated list of 'Trees with Short Mature Heights' includes tall shrubs NEW LONDON, Conn. - In response to the tremendous damage to utility infrastructure caused by trees near overhead wires during last year's major storms, the Connecticut College Arboretum and the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station have released a new list of trees with relatively low mature heights suitable for planting near street-side utility lines. The new two-page list updates the one included in a publication by Connecticut College Arboretum Director Glenn Dreyer, titled, "Trees and Shrubs for Your Community." The suggested list of more than 40 species and varieties of low trees and tall shrubs, many of which are native to the eastern United States, includes a wide variety of species that have significant aesthetic and wildlife values. "Whether replacing trees lost to last year's storms, or planting a new tree near - but not under - utility lines, towns and homeowners can be confident that trees on this list will minimize tree-related power outages during storms with high winds, snow and ice," Dreyer said. A copy of the list can be downloaded at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station website: www.ct.gov/caes/ShortTrees. About the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station The mission of The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station is to develop, advance and disseminate scientific knowledge, improve agricultural productivity and environmental quality, protect plants, and enhance human health and well-being through research for the benefit of Connecticut residents and the nation. Seeking solutions across a variety of disciplines for the benefit of urban, suburban and rural communities, Station scientists remain committed to "Putting Science to Work for Society," a motto as relevant today as it was at the Station's founding in 1875. About Connecticut College Situated on the coast of southern New England, Connecticut College is a highly selective private liberal arts college with 1900 students from all across the country and throughout the world. On the college's 750-acre arboretum campus overlooking Long Island Sound, students and faculty create a vibrant social, cultural and intellectual community enriched by diverse perspectives. The college, founded in 1911, is known for its unique combination of interdisciplinary studies, international programs, funded internships, student-faculty research and service learning. For more information, visit www.connecticutcollege.edu. -CC-
February 20, 2012