The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has successfully removed hazardous trees from over 12 miles of highway in the Panhandle region. The operation took over 3,000 hours of work, according to ITD.
Trees were removed from key areas including a five-mile section of State Highway 5 near Heyburn State Park, approximately four miles of State Highway 54 between Athol and Farragut State Park, three miles of State Highway 97 and multiple zones adjacent to Interstate 90.
Emergency tree removals also occurred on State Highway 57 with downed trees on the roadway.
ITD plans to clear all 37 miles of State Highway 57. The operation aims to enhance road safety and serve as a fire break in the wooded region between Priest River and Priest Lake.
ITD Chief Deputy Director Dan McElhinney spoke about the efforts, saying, “In 2023, we initiated a statewide roadside tree assessment and enhanced removal plans to better understand the scope of work and improve our ability to address highway hazards. By partnering with federal agencies and local stakeholders, we’re enhancing safety recovery zones, wildlife visibility, and fire protection widths using advanced cutting equipment. We are also engaging local contractors for larger projects in the coming years.”
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Source: KHQ, Fox 28
