Eversource and Mass Wildlife hold turtle protection program

Turtles are often killed by heavy machinery used along the pathways

By Adam Strzempko

AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) – Workers from Eversource, tree service contractors, and environmental consultants, along with biologists from the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife gathered on the pathway under the high tension power lines on Moylan Lane in Agawam.

“Eversource has more than 2300 miles of transmission rights-of-away in the three states that we operate, more than 600 miles here in Massachusetts. So we have a big stake in making sure that their habitat is protected and we take our role as an environmental steward very seriously,” said Frank Poirot of Eversource.

“Turtles can often get killed by machinery and heavy equipment so our goal is to train their staff as they’re working through these rights-of-way so they can avoid that direct mortality. Pick the animal up and move it to safety and continue on with the project,” said Mass Wildlife Endangered Species Biologist David Paulson.

The Eastern Box turtle and the Wood turtle commonly live and breed along transmission rights-of-way.

Every year Eversource holds the training for those who work along those paths.



Source and Video: WWLP