Dominion Energy to Resume Tree-Cutting Along W&OD Trail Amid Controversy

LOUDOUN COUNTY, Virginia — Dominion Energy plans to resume tree-cutting along the W&OD Trail starting June 16, a move that has drawn criticism from NOVA Parks officials.

The utility company paused its tree removal project in March following community concerns. After two months, Dominion announced it would begin the targeted removal of trees deemed necessary for maintaining the electric grid’s safety and reliability.

In a letter dated Friday, Paul Gilbert, the head of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVA Parks), expressed his concerns about the planned tree removals. “We are concerned with the scope of the tree removal and the lack of a plan to restore trees in the areas being worked on,” he wrote.

Gilbert’s letter follows a Thursday communication from Amanda Keyes, the manager of electric transmission forestry for Dominion, who detailed the company’s plans. The tree-cutting is expected to last three to four weeks, with crews identifying 58 trees, including cedars and Virginia pines, for removal along the trail, which runs between Reston and Herndon.

Supporters of the trail argue that the extensive removal could have damaging environmental effects. Gilbert stated that NOVA Parks did not request or support the cutting of those trees but instead sought help managing invasive species.

Dominion’s announcement indicated that of the 67 total trees being cut in Loudoun County, approximately 73% were previously categorized as undesirable vegetation by NOVA Parks. In Arlington County, only four dead deodar cedar trees are scheduled for removal as part of the maintenance work.

Keyes emphasized the company’s commitment to working collaboratively with NOVA Parks and noted the importance of selectively managing vegetation along the trail to maintain its community significance. However, she mentioned a lack of replanting or restoration plans for many of the areas targeted for cutting.

Gilbert raised questions about the timing of the cutting, stating that environmental factors, such as bird nesting habits and gaps in replanting, must be considered to minimize ecological harm. Currently, Dominion has yet to respond to Gilbert’s suggestions for modifications to their plan.