DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – Throughout southeastern Michigan, the trees near powerlines that are trimmed by DTE Energy stand out. That’s because one side of the tree can have all of its limbs removed so as not to interfere with power lines.

DTE spends between $190 million to $260 million a year on tree trimming that begins in the early spring.

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Some Michigan residents have questioned the strategy, claiming it creates an eyesore, damages the tree that should just be removed as the limbs eventually grow back.

Chuck Tyrrell of Berkley has posted on his social media account about the DTE practice. He told Michigan News Source this trimming policy doesn’t fix the problem and on social media has suggested owners of the trimmed trees take them down before a storm does.

DTE Energy released a statement to Michigan News Source on its tree trimming policy.

“Half the time DTE Energy customers spend without power is due to trees and branches falling on and damaging electric equipment, and trimming or removing trees can help to prevent these kinds of outages. Where tree trimming is complete, our customers experience a 40% improvement in reliability,” the statement said. “DTE’s tree trim professionals, including several certified arborists, follow industry best practices for trimming and removing trees. Whenever feasible, crews will entirely remove smaller trees, brush and trees that are dying or diseased. We collaborate with the property owner to make informed decisions regarding these removals. Separately, trimming allows the property owner to continue enjoying the tree while keeping power lines clear. By planting the right trees in the right place, customers can have beautiful trees and reliable power.”