Atel Hydro AG will start replacing the old tree population along the canal to the Gösgen hydro power station in late February. Around 140 black poplars in the community of Winznau will be felled this winter, and replaced by saplings three to four metres tall. Razing them became necessary because the poplars had all more or less reached their 90-year life expectancy. Examination by tree preservation experts found universal decay and decomposition.
Atel Hydro AG is taking this action in close cooperation with local government in Winznau, and the district forestry authority. The partners are in agreement about restoring the landscape status quo as soon as possible. Accordingly, the old poplar trunks will be bored out and young black poplars planted afterwards in their place. Atel Hydro AG is underwriting the entire cost of clearing and replanting, which will amount to around CHF 500,000. A second stage is planned for winter 2006/2007, this time affecting 165 poplar trees between the communities of Winznau and Obergösgen.
Aare-Tessin Ltd. for Electricity Corporate Communications
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