Idaho clears trees on panhandle highways

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) spent more than 3,000 hours clearing hazard trees from more than 12 miles of highways in the panhandle this summer.

Crews addressed three miles of State Highway 97, approximately four miles of State Highway 54 between Athol and Farragut State Park, five miles of State Highway 5 near Heyburn State Park, and multiple areas adjacent to Interstate 90. Crews also made several emergency tree removals on State Highway 57.

“In 2023 we initiated a statewide roadside tree assessment and enhanced removal plans to understand the scope of work to expand our ability to address Idaho highway hazards,” ITD Chief Deputy Director Dan McElhinney said. “Working with federal partners and local owners, we have taken the lead in clearing highway-adjacent hazard trees for improving errant driver safety recovery zones, wildlife visibility, and fire protection widths by using innovative new cutting equipment resources for ITD employees. We’re also adding contracts with local firms to tackle larger removal projects with ITD during the next few years.”

Crews in North Idaho also tested several new machines to best utilize funding for equipment. This included the FAE Forestry Mulcher, a machine that has the capability to cut trees up to 18 inches in diameter.

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