Why You May See Tree Clearing Along the Maine Turnpike

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 26, 2026

Rebecca J. Grover (207) 838-6795 rgrover@maineturnpike.com

Why You May See Tree Clearing Along the Maine Turnpike

Drivers on the Maine Turnpike may notice crews tree clearing along the roadway in the winter. It’s a change that often prompts questions—what’s happening and why? The answer is simple: Safety.

Safety Always Comes First on the Turnpike

Trees that may be dead pose risk. Removing hazards before they become a problem helps protect drivers, our Maine State Troopers, first responders, and can help prevent accidents.
Reasons may include:

• Visibility - In highway design, the clear zone is a critical safety area between the edge of the pavement and to the clearing line (right-of-way buffer). The clear zone beyond the shoulder must remain free of obstacles. When trees grow within this zone, they block sightlines and signs, and even create shadows in winter that resemble moving wildlife—distracting drivers. Maintaining a clear zone gives drivers more time to react to hazards like deer crossing, and significantly enhances overall roadway safety.
• Healthier Ecosystems -  The clear zone allows crews to easily spot and remove litter and hazards, keeping roadsides cleaner. Plus, when more sunlight reaches the pavement, ice forms less often. That means winter road crews use less salt and fewer chemical de-icers, which can seep into the soil and waterways.
• Infrastructure Protection – Healthy drainage systems are essential for safe travel, especially during heavy rain. When tree roots invade these systems, water can pool increasing the risk of hydroplaning and accidents. Removing problematic trees and vegitation helps preserve drainage infrastructure, decrease standing water, and maintain the integrity of the road surface for safer driving conditions.
• Dead or Dying Trees - Trees that are dead or in decline pose a serious safety risk because they lose structural strength over time. High winds, storms, or even their own weight can cause them to fall without warning. Proactively removing these trees before they fail helps prevent accidents and traffic disruptions.
• Unsafe Trees (Example: Ash Trees) - Ash trees and other vulnerable species can be affected by invasive pests like the emerald ash borer. Once weakened, they become brittle and unsafe, so removing them helps prevent falling limbs and limits the spread of disease.

Right-of Way Buffer

MTA clears about 5-10 miles of tree line annually and values maintaining a buffer between the tree line and right-of-way fencing. Buffers vary by geology, permitting, and proximity to homes—ranging from 10 to 150 feet  with safety as the top priority. MTA also does planting to add or expand buffers near residential housing when appropriate. 

Seasonal Timing

• Seasonal Conditions -  When planning allows, work is scheduled in winter to minimize impacts on nesting birds, hibernating bats, and other sensitive habitats.

Locations & Approach

• Regular Maintenance - MTA crews remove trees year-round if driver safety is at risk.
• Seasonal Maintenance - MTA contractors clear about 5-10 miles of tree line annually to maintain safe sightlines and right-of-way buffers.

Roadside to Reuse: The Journey of Removed Trees

Most trees are sent to local businesses—such as paper mills, biomass facilities, or landscaping companies—so the material can be reused. Meaning, the wood stays in Maine whenever possible. Contractors are responsible for managing the trees they cut and determine where the material goes next. MTA benefits from pricing that factors in recycling, ensuring nothing goes to waste. 

For questions on the current contruction contract  (MM 17 to Exit 19; MM 23 to MM 32.4) in York County,  contact Brian Taddeo, Project Manager, Maintenance Department.