CHATHAM — The Chatham Airport Commission will host a workshop for community members next week regarding Obstruction Removal and Easements.
WHEN
Thursday, June 16, at 4:30 p.m.
WHERE
Town Annex building large meeting room, 261 George Ryder Road
WHAT
The workshop will focus on discussing the Obstruction Removal Plan and the areas where trees have been identified as runway obstructions. A 2018 aerial survey revealed that trees in the approach paths of Runway 6-24 exceed the maximum allowable height and encroach upon the approach paths. The trees place the airport out of compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and Town of Chatham Bylaw, Chapter 100, and pose a potential safety hazard.
The trimming or cutting of trees surrounding an airport is a standard practice, because trees can grow into runway approach paths as they continue to grow. Unchecked growth can pose increased risk to air traffic and those on the ground.
FAA Safety Regulations require that certain areas of trees surrounding airports must be removed or trimmed back, even if they occur within wetlands. The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act allows for vegetation management at airports as a Limited Project Status, with careful design and precautions in place to minimize impact on the wetlands.
During the workshop, the Chatham Airport Commission will explain how and why public use airports work with private property owners to address obstructions and the safety issues they pose.
“We encourage all residents to attend the meeting, learn more about this program, and share any concerns they may have,” Commission Chairman Huntley Harrison said. “The input we receive will help guide us as we work to improve safety at the airport and for the surrounding community.”
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