Lights versus Trees

The Union Leader points out that we have short memories when it comes to clearing tree branches from power lines.

"People like trees, but they also like electricity and heat."

So says Epping Town Administrator Dean Shankle, who faults Public Service of New Hampshire for scaling back a tree-trimming operation in town. Of course, PSNH scaled back its operation after complaints, including some from town officials, that it was going to take too many trees and change the view along Main Street.

This is what is known as being between a rock and a hard place. It also proves what short memories people have. It was less than a year ago that ice storms brought down thousands of tree limbs and knocked out power to thousands of Granite Staters for days and, in some cases, a week or more. This was a matter of more than a little inconvenience. It cost thousands of dollars in lost business time, closed schools and jeopardized the health of shut-ins.