3/20/2020
Megan Jahns
ITD Communication
208-772-1295
megan.jahns@itd.idaho.gov
Tree removal at the Orofino Airport underway, with impacts to US-12 next week
LEWISTON—Trees along US-12 near the Orofino Airport will be removed next week to improve safety for flyers and drivers.
In recent years, the trees have grown taller and thicker, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to ask the City of Orofino to remove those that are encroaching on the runway.
Some trees are on property owned by the Idaho Transportation Department, which supports their removal to enhance safety by decreasing shade in winter months and improving drivers’ line of sight.
Starting Monday, March 23, crews will start removing trees between US-12 and the airport. They are expected to be on site from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for up to five days. A helicopter will transport the logs to another part of the grounds for processing.
When crews are on scene, the westbound slow lane will be closed. All westbound traffic will be stopped for up to 15 minutes as larger trees with the capacity to reach the road are felled. All lanes will be open when there is no active work.
View a photo of trees on US-12 near the airport.
Work is already underway to remove trees on the north side of the airport. Any questions may be directed to the City of Orofino at (208) 476-4725.