Georgia Power cuts down historic 'exceptional' tree despite local efforts

Utility cites state law, reliability concerns for removing 300-year-old oak in Chatham County

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Georgia Power has cut down a historic 300-year-old oak tree in Chatham County, Georgia, despite local efforts to save it. The utility cited state law and reliability concerns related to an upcoming transmission line project as reasons for removing the tree, which was designated as an 'exceptional tree' by a county arborist.

Why it matters

The removal of the historic tree has sparked outrage among local residents who advocated for its preservation, highlighting the tension between utility infrastructure needs and environmental protection. This case underscores the challenges communities face in balancing economic development and reliability with preserving significant natural resources.

The details

Georgia Power said state law allows it to cut or remove trees that interfere with power lines within legally approved easements, even when local protections exist. The utility also cited reliability concerns, claiming the project was needed to avoid potential blackouts in parts of Savannah during peak summer heat. Georgia Power stated it negotiated with the property owners and provided compensation for an additional easement, during which the owners agreed to allow the utility to trim or remove the tree.

  • Georgia Power began negotiations with property owners more than a year ago.
  • The tree was cut down on February 25, 2026.

The players

Georgia Power

A utility company that provides electricity to customers in Georgia, including the Savannah area. The company cited state law and reliability concerns as reasons for removing the historic oak tree.

Emily Eisenhart

A local resident who advocated for a county ordinance to protect the 300-year-old oak tree.

Lydia Snyder

A local resident who advocated for preserving the historic tree and believes the removal highlights the need for stronger environmental protections.

Chatham County arborist

A county official who designated the 300-year-old oak tree as an 'exceptional tree', a designation for trees considered significant due to size, age or history.

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What they’re saying

“We thought we saved one tree. Turns out we couldn't even save one beautiful tree.”

— Emily Eisenhart, Local resident (WTOC)

“We need trees to breathe, and they're just cutting them down. At what point do you stop cutting them down for money? At what point is the money enough?”

— Lydia Snyder, Local resident (WTOC)

What’s next

The removal of the historic oak tree has sparked outrage among local residents, who may continue to advocate for stronger environmental protections and challenge Georgia Power's decision through legal or political channels.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tension between utility infrastructure needs and environmental preservation, as well as the limitations of local efforts to protect significant natural resources when state laws grant utilities broad authority to remove trees. It underscores the need for a more balanced approach that considers both economic development and environmental concerns.