BC Hydro is sending out a public safety warning this weekend, but this time it’s about something other than the quick-running water of the Puntledge River.

Trees will be removed in the area between Comox Dam and Puntledge Diversion Dam. Because of the trails in the area, BC Hydro is warning people to pay attention to signs, and expect some closures and delays on the paths.

The hazard tree removal will begin this Monday and continue for about two weeks, said Stephen Watson with the company’s community relations.

“This is a bit of a catch-up,” he said about the removal process, which began with a danger-tree assessment by certified arborists earlier this year.

About 90 per cent of the trees to be removed are already dead, said Watson, and they will finally be able to access some of the damaged areas from the 2006 storm season.

No overall number of trees to be removed could be provided. They will continually monitor, he added, to ensure that trees aren’t felled into the water.

THe area will not be fully closed, said Watson, which is why they’re asking for the public’s diligence in considering safety on the trails. Contractors will be on hand to help with trail-users, and signs will be posted, but Watson said the best way to avoid issues is to avoid the area all together until mid-June.

Meanwhile, they’re adding once again a warning for the river flows this weekend. BC Hydro will be spilling water from the dam to provide optimum river levels for the annual kayak festival.

Staff say the flows will be too high for anyone other than experienced kayakers to be on the water.

reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com

By Colleen Dane - Comox Valley Record - May 30, 2008