Despite MnDOT Concessions, Opponents Still Not Happy with Planned Tree Cutting on Lakes Country Scenic Byway

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – MnDOT has adjusted their plans to cut trees along the Highway 34 Lakes Country Scenic Byway.

MnDOT had planned to clear trees from 65 feet from both sides of the center of Highway 34 in what’s called a “clear zone” from Becker County Road 29 to west of Osage as well as additional selective logging on portions of the road to allow better penetration of the sun on the roadway which helps with snow and ice melt.

Becker County Commissioners recently sent a letter of support for residents, vacationers and organizations that have been concerned with the proposed tree cutting to the State Transportation Commissioner asking them to reconsider their tree-cutting plans.

In response to that letter, MnDOT now says they’ll cut just 50% of the “shade trees” beyond the “clear zone” on a portion of the south side of the road near Osage. MnDOT had originally planned to cut 85% of those trees.

The compromise still isn’t enough for many of those who oppose the tree-cutting. “It’s not going to be as nice and the showy Lady Slippers are not going to survive that well. I’ve got an Ag degree, I’m a Master Gardener – I’m just going to tell you right now it’s not going to be the same road after they get done no matter what they say,” said Scott Sonstegard an opponent of the project.

Tree-cutting will start this fall, with construction on the resurfacing to be complete in 2023.