W&OD Trail Tree Removal Lamented In Vienna, Officials Provide Update

VIENNA, VA — The clearing of trees by Dominion Energy along a portion of the Washington & Old Dominion Trail has prompted public concern and Vienna officials pressing for answers from the utility company. An alternative plan being considered may not necessarily involve new trees.

The tree clearing relates to an electric line replacement project to address growing electricity needs by Dominion Energy along about four miles of the W&OD Trail in the Vienna and Dunn Loring areas. FFX Now reported that the extent of tree removal that began in November 2024 has shocked local residents and W&OD Trail owner NOVA Parks.

According to the media outlet's report, the utility provider backed away from a voluntary agreement with NOVA Parks from 2005 on vegetative clearing on the trail. The agreement called for limiting vegetative removal to trees that could get in the way of power lines.

Mayor Linda Colbert, who said in a video update that she received many resident emails about the tree removals, indicated officials are eying a plan for a meadow. However, the mayor is advocating for getting trees back.

"I am working with Dominion Power and NOVA Parks to get as many trees replanted, both the Town Green and the W&OD Trail," said Colbert.

Del. Holly Seibold, who represents the Town of Vienna in the Virginia House, said she has been in contact with Dominion Energy officials about addressing the loss of trees.

"They have assured me that they have a plan to replace the loss," Seibold said in a recent newsletter to constituents. "My priority at this time is to increase the transparency between Dominion and the residents of our community."

Seibold and other officials had contacted Dominion Energy with concerns about the tree removals. The state delegate is still seeking information from Dominion Energy on the quantity and types of trees removed.