Dominion Energy is poised to resume a major tree‑cutting operation along the W&OD Trail beginning June 16, 2025. The utility aims to remove 129 trees in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Arlington counties to protect the reliability of its high‑voltage lines during peak summer loads. NOVA Parks, which oversees the trail, is pushing back, calling for a more selective plan and a robust replanting strategy.
Latest Action on the Trail
After suspending the project in late March due to public and municipal criticism, Dominion Energy confirmed in early June that it would restart the work on June 16, with crews expected to remain for three to four weeks. They earmarked:
- 58 trees in Fairfax County
- 67 trees in Loudoun County
- 4 dead cedars in Arlington
- Invasive bamboo removal in Glencarlyn Park
Dominion emphasizes that these removals are essential for maintaining clearance beneath sagging power lines, which can dangerously approach vegetation in hot weather—posing fire and outage risks. This intervention aligns with standards designed to avoid blackouts like the one in August 2003.
NOVA Parks’ Concerns and Requests
NOVA Parks leader Paul Gilbert expressed deep reservations about the proposed scale of deciduous tree removal. His concerns include:
- The lack of restoration plans following clear‑cuts
- Potential disturbance of bird nesting season
- Re‑invasion of non‑native species in cleared zones
- Absence of a mature replanting timeline outside Arlington
NOVA Parks is urging Dominion to:
- Limit removals to only high‑risk trees
- Develop and finance a comprehensive replanting strategy
- Collaborate on managing invasive species post-removal
What’s at Stake for W&OD Trail
The Washington & Old Dominion Trail is a cherished regional greenway stretching 45 miles from Shirlington to Purcellville. Dominion holds easement rights along 33 miles, and this latest action follows widespread cuts last November through March, which affected a four-mile segment from Vienna to Dunn Loring—intentionally exceeding typical pruning practices.
That heavy cutting prompted regional boards and community members to demand a return to targeted trimming and stronger engagement with NOVA Parks.
Path Forward: Collaboration or Conflict?
Dialogue between Dominion Energy and NOVA Parks is in motion:
- NOVA Parks is drafting an arborist‑led restoration plan
- They have submitted a revised Memorandum of Understanding proposing work limitations, replanting mandates, and invasive species management
- Dominion expressed openness to the draft in late April and plans stakeholder discussions soon
However, Dominion has yet to commit to replanting or to accepting new formal agreements. NOVA Parks is awaiting detailed timelines, species lists, and restoration commitments.
Why This Matters
- Energy Reliability: Dominion must preclude vegetation contact with transmission lines to keep the grid safe and operational during summer demand spikes.
- Environmental Preservation: The W&OD Trail offers critical community green space—over‑cutting threatens nesting wildlife and allows invasive species to reclaim cleared zones.
- Community Confidence: Local officials and trail users expect transparent processes, restoration promises, and minimal ecological disruption.
What’s Next
As crews mobilize on June 16, the spotlight is on whether Dominion will:
- Heed NOVA Parks’ calls and scale back tree removal
- Provide detailed restoration plans, including species, planting schedules, and budget
- Solidify a new cooperative framework with regional agencies
Expect updates through late June, when the tree removal phase concludes. Public officials and trail advocates are watching keenly for signs of precision cutting and genuine environmental mitigation.
The outcome of this dispute will shape how utility infrastructure and cherished public spaces coexist in Northern Virginia. If Dominion and NOVA Parks can agree on a balanced plan, it could serve as a model for future utility-park collaborations.
Support thoughtful environmental stewardship and safe energy infrastructure. Join local forums, ask questions, and demand that power reliability and ecological health move forward together.