‘Obliteration’ of trees on north side of canal destroys tranquility of towpath

Editor:

The Erie Canal towpath has always been a place of beauty and tranquility. It is a place to escape, walk, ride bicycles and enjoy nature.

We have lost something with the rapid execution of the tree line and foliage along the towpath, which gave home to wildlife, and a break from the harsh winds of fall and winter.

We understand the reasoning behind the clearing of trees and brush, but the ruthless nature that the Canal Corp. has used in clearing this scenic walkway is unforgivable.

It has been particularly harsh for residents living on the north side of the canal, where all privacy is lost. In the article on the Orleans Hub, it was stated that “The trees were not a managed forest. They were not planned and placed so as to be in harmony with the canal bank.” And the removal was “a good thing.”

We strongly disagree that the total obliteration of trees is a good thing. A true environmentalist could have, and would have, managed to leave some semblance, however small, of a natural tree line and still be able to mow and check for breaches.

Our belief and hope, is that whatever the Canal Corp. has in mind for the future, they take a more sensitive approach to management.

Elizabeth and Michael Leone

Medina