COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced that it has successfully removed hazardous trees from over 12 miles of highways in the Panhandle region this summer.
According to a department spokesperson, the operation involved more than 3,000 hours of work. The removal focused on 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, a three-mile stretch of State Highway 97, and multiple zones adjacent to Interstate 90. Emergency tree removals were also conducted on State Highway 57 due to falls across the roadway.
Looking ahead, ITD plans to collaborate with the Priest River Ranger District in the coming year to clear all 37 miles of State Highway 57. The initiative aims to enhance road safety for travelers and serve as a crucial fire break in the densely wooded region between Priest River and Priest Lake.
ITD Chief Deputy Director Dan McElhinney highlighted the department’s expanded 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.”
