Clearing of the vegetation along Trout Brook is required by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and other agencies.

Submitted

The West Hartford Department of Public Works has started its annual maintenance of the Trout Brook Flood Channel side slopes.

This ongoing maintenance is essential to protecting the town from flooding. It is required by both the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Each fall, the town is inspected by these agencies to ensure compliance.

In the past, herbicides were used to manage vegetation growth in the flood channel. In 2015, the Town transitioned to a mechanical maintenance method, which has proven more effective for long-term vegetation control while also being environmentally safer.

During this work, residents may see specialized vegetation management equipment clearing the side slopes along Trout Brook from Asylum Avenue to New Park Avenue. On occasion, and only when necessary for safety and access, the equipment may enter the waterway. This is required in specific locations where the slopes are too steep to traverse safely. Any water entry will be minimal and limited to essential work only.

The project is expected to continue through the month of September.

This annual maintenance ensures the flood channel continues to function as designed, protecting the community from potential flooding.

For questions or more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at 860-561-8100.

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