What is the County really doing with the new tree and natural plant removals?

This is one of the dozens of calls and emails complaining about the tree and plant removals I am getting (unsolicited) since the County started their new program during Christmas week.

Note the reference in the email below to the County saying they are clearing the path for Com Ed crews. This is the first reference I am hearing about helping Com Ed tied with this new program.

Hello Don:
On January 13, 2003, at approximately 12:00 P.M., I was running westerly on the trial getting a good workout for the day. During my run, I had seen two Dupage County transportation workers in the county's white pickup truck. When I turned around to head back, I stopped to chat with the gentlemen. I had asked them about the tree trimming initiative to clear 15' of trees from each side of the main path. They said they were clearing the trail for the Com Ed trucks to have access to their lines.
The workers said they were clearing the wild berry trees, which spread and kill the good trees. I asked the workers if they are replanting trees, and they said no.
They told me that the Glen Ellyn experiment to replant did not work, so the county was not replanting. I find this disturbing and reckless. We do not live on a planet with unlimited resources. The more we take away, the less life we all have on earth. Let us all prevent this from happening and help educate those who do not understand.

Sincerely,

michael robert ellek Wayne Township, 29th precinct committeeman

To IPPc Board Members and supporters:
I would like to suggest that those of you that share these concerns contact the DuPage County Division of Transportation at 630-682-7318 and your County Board members (call 630--682-7440 to get their names and contact info) asking them to get this new trail tree/natural plant removal program stopped until it is understood why and how this program will be managed.
I welcome your opinions and input.
Don Kirchenberg Email: FrndsGrtWstnTrl@aol.com Home office 630-682-9297