In response to the gentleman who suggests that the Des Moines City Council pass an ordinance restricting tree height in the city, I must say I would be opposed to that method of dealing with the issue. Trees are not the problem; irresponsible property owners and overzealous developers are the real problem.

I have Douglas firs and cedar trees on my property. Every few years I have an arborist trim and inspect them for both health and shape to insure that they are not a hazard.

The trees provide wonderful shade in the summer and help to buffer the airplane noise all year long. If every property owner and the various agencies (cities, county and state) would do the same, there would be no need to resort to ordinances.

I do know that Puget Sound Energy approaches property owners when they see trees that might pose a hazard to power lines. If every property owner would allow the utility to remove such trees, that would also help prevent power outages during storm conditions.

It's time for tree owners to step up and take responsibility.

Madge A. Hanson

Des Moines