Utility company cuts down historic ‘exceptional’ tree despite local efforts to save it

CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - Georgia Power said state law and reliability concerns led to the removal of a historic tree in Chatham County as part of its upcoming transmission line project.

In a statement, the utility outlined four reasons for cutting down the tree. One of the main concerns, the company said, was the risk of blackouts in parts of Savannah during peak summer heat if the project were delayed.

The tree was recognized by a Chatham County arborist as an “exceptional tree,” a designation for trees considered significant due to size, age or history.

SEE: Chatham County homeowner moves to save 300-year-old ‘exceptional’ oak threatened by powerline path

Despite that recognition, Georgia Power said it had the authority under state law to remove the tree and manage the right of way to ensure reliable electric service for customers. The company cited a law, which allows utilities to cut or remove trees that interfere with power lines within legally approved easements, even when local protections exist.

Georgia Power also said it negotiated in good faith with the property owners more than a year ago and provided compensation for an additional easement. According to the company, the property owners agreed at that time to allow the utility to trim or remove the tree.

SEE: ‘Unfortunately, the tree must be removed’: Historic 300-year-old oak tree taken down in Chatham Co.

Emily Eisenhart, one of several residents who advocated for a county ordinance to protect the tree, said watching it come down was emotional.

“We thought we saved one tree,” Eisenhart said. “Turns out we couldn’t even save one beautiful tree.”

Georgia Power also said the selected route for the transmission line avoids wetlands, a nearby cemetery and the need to remove hundreds more trees across more than 17 acres.

For Lydia Snyder, who advocated for preserving the tree, the removal highlights what she believes is a need for stronger environmental protections.

“We need trees to breathe, and they’re just cutting them down,” Snyder said. “At what point do you stop cutting them down for money? At what point is the money enough?”

A Georgia Power spokesperson was on site during the tree’s removal but did not answer specific questions about the decision. WTOC has reached out to the company for additional details.