Public meetings have been scheduled in the Chico area as Pacific Gas and Electric Company seeks input on plans to remove an undisclosed number of trees.
The firm has been removing trees it says present a potential hazard to its network of natural gas pipelines. The initiative was launched in the wake of a deadly explosion in San Bruno five years ago. The explosion was not blamed on trees.
PG&E has identified trees along the Midway between Chico and Durham for possible removal. The company said tree roots can block access for first responders and damage pipes, eventually causing corrosion.
There will be a public forum in Durham tonight at 6 at the Veteran’s Memorial Hall and on Monday at 5 p.m. at the Patrick Ranch Museum.
An explosion this week in Fresno remains under investigation, but initial reports suggest the line was ruptured by a crew using heavy equipment to clear spent ammo from a police firing range.