CT HB05308

The Department of Transportation shall develop guidelines governing vegetation and tree removal along state highways addressing safety, mowing, herbicide application, replanting, beautification, visibility, traffic control, and worker safety.

Guidelines must consider environmental impacts including invasive species prevention, stormwater runoff, erosion control, pollinator corridor habitat expansion, reduced mowing practices, and effects on scenic highways.

Vegetation management guidelines must be reviewed and approved by a licensed arborist if available from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection or Department of Transportation.

Guidelines shall be posted on the DOT website, updated as necessary to comply with federal and state law, and reviewed by all maintenance and contractor personnel before vegetation management activities commence.

The Department of Transportation must report by May 1st each year to the General Assembly committees on environment and finance regarding funds allocated for vegetation management for the remainder of the calendar year.