A wildlife rehabilitation sanctuary near Lake Geneva is trying to stop a multi-state utility wire company from clear-cutting trees and vegetation on its property beginning next week. American Transmission Company, known also as ATC, plans the safety measure along an easement in front of the Fellow Mortals Wildlife Hospital that treats thousands of injured animals every year. Fellow Mortals accepts and treats injured birds, waterfowl and other animals like deer and squirrels. Yvonne Wallace Blane says the tall trees and vegetation help protect her recovering and soon to be released patients. The wildlife hospital co-founder has offered to trim the proposed area at her own expense. ATC rejected that idea but offered to plant replacement vegetation to help screen the property from noise and interference. Blane said that wouldn’t replace the wild birdsong that helps recovering creatures ease back into nature. In a statement, Corporate Communications says, “ We remain optimistic that together we can accomplish a positive balance between ATC’s responsibility for ensuring safe and reliable electric service and Fellow Mortals’ compassion and commitment for healing wildlife.”
On Tuesday ATC also did a survey at the site to assure that no active nests were in the area to be cleared. So far 80,000 people have signed a petition for Fellow Mortals asking that no clear-cutting take place.