Illegal cutting or removing of trees and shrubs along state highways has been a more frequent occurrence recently, according to landscape maintenance workers in the 11-county Caltrans District 3, which includes Nevada County. Agency spokesman Gilbert Mohtes-Chan says there is no particular area where it’s a problem and the motive is not always clear…

click to listen to Gilbert Mohtes-Chan

Chan says Cal Trans has taken legal action against guilty parties…

click to listen to Gilbert Mohtes-Chan

Under the law, Caltrans can recover in court a penalty as high as $10,000 per tree and $1,000 per shrub. The state can also recover other costs and expenses, such as legal fees. In addition, damage awards can be doubled or tripled. Chan says individuals and businesses need to call the District 3 Encroachment Permit Office, at 741-4403. But he says Caltrans will only do trimmings where there is a safety hazard.