Local man ordered to pay over $43,000 for cutting trees along Columbia
The illegal clear-cut along the Port of The Dalles spanning at least forty feet long in front of recent building developments down on the Port near Klindt’s Cove Pocket Park. Photo Credit: CCCNews
By Cole Goodwin
In September of 2021, an illegal tree and brush clear-cut took place along the Riverfront Trail on Port of The Dalles Property, resulting in a criminal case being brought to the Wasco County Circuit Court.
This month, Judge Marion T. Weatherford passed judgment on the case, convicting Anthony Lane Morelli of criminal mischief in the second degree.
Morelli was sentenced to 24 months of bench probation, with the possibility of early termination or extension depending on the status of restitution payment. The court also stipulated that Morelli must pay $43,890 in restitution to the Port of The Dalles. However, if the Port rejects restitution as full reimbursement, the judgment may be reopened.
The court found that the clear-cut was a violation of the law, as the trees and brush were removed from Port of The Dalles property without permission. The removal of the trees and vegetation caused significant damage to the area, which was home to willows, alder, tree of heaven, and very large mulberry trees, which functioned well for berry production for wildlife and bank stabilization along the river.
Stumps and brush left dumped on Port property following the clear-cut of the area along the Riverfront trail. Photo Credit: CCCNews
The damage caused by the clear-cut was assessed by Scott Susi, of Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District (WCSWCD) back in 2021, Susi had commented that the loss of the riparian trees would impact the habitat for local and migratory birds, plants, and insects for decades to come.
“There are very few sites along the Columbia River in our region that have riparian trees. These limited sites are scarce habitat for local and migratory birds and to rehab the site back to existing capacity will take 40-50 years of growth.” said Scott Susi, WCSWCD in September of 2021.
Stumps and brush left on Port property following the illegal clear-cut. Photo Credit: CCCNews
The $43,890 in restitution will help to pay (in part) for the restoration of the area.
“The Port is pleased that the case is concluded, and that restoration planning can finally begin” said Andrea Klaas, Executive Director, of The Port of The Dalles “The Port had very supportive partners who testified in court on its behalf about the damage that was caused by the removal of the trees and vegetation.”
The Port will begin working on a restoration design this spring in partnership with local conservation agencies and landscapers. The Port will also be looking for grant funds to help cover additional costs.
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