Cutting trees on public lands

The Army Corps of Engineers is investigating and pursuing restitution for seven cases of destruction to public lands surrounding Lake Hartwell. According to Sandy Campbell, natural resource manager, the destruction cases represent an un-precedented increase in property owners illegally removing trees and vegetation along the lake shoreline. The consequences may include fines, court appearances and, in some instances, revocation of shoreline use permits for private boat docks and other permitted structures and activities. Trees and vegetation surrounding Lake Hartwell serve as a buffer and a filter for run-off from property, which may contain fertilizers and herbicides from lawns and farms, along with other pollutants from roadways. The Corps of Engineers can issue qualifying adjacent property owners a permit for limited cutting.