Nearly 100 Trees Could Be Cut Down For Woodland Solar Panel Project

WOODLAND (CBS13) — Close to 100 trees could be cut down to make way for a new solar panel project in Woodland.

Red Xs mark the spots where the city of Woodland plans to chop down 89 trees around the city. The removal will make way for solar panels at six locations, including near the community center and the city dog park.

"We are going to have to take some trees out that are in the median or some trees that are on the periphery that are going to grow so large that their shadow is going to be over the top of the solar panels," said Greg Meyer, the director of public works for Woodland.

Residents spoke out at Monday night's park commission meeting, but the city says its goal is green, too.

The solar panels are part of the city's effort to reduce its carbon footprint. The city says the project will save it $140,000 a year, with $4 million projected over the 28-year contract.

"We are just trying to get the best of both worlds, by putting up the solar panels," Meyer said.

But opponents like Ann Winship who enjoy sitting in the shade are now standing up to protect their trees.

"There are a lot of places within this complex where I'm sure that solar panels could be placed without having to destroy trees that have been trying to grow for so long and trees that so many people enjoy," she said.

City leaders will consider moving forward with the project at Tuesday's City Council meeting. If the plan is approved, the city would plant new trees to replace the ones cut down.