Towing Company Volunteers To Take Away Tree Trunks, Roots
Sep 16, 2020, 9:13 PM | Updated: Sep 17, 2020, 8:02 am
WASHINGTON TERRACE, Utah – With tons of tree debris still littering northern Utah after last week’s devastating windstorm, a tow truck company is bringing in some heavy machinery to help homeowners in Washington Terrace.
The trucks are pulling some very large roots and trunks after the storm toppled hundreds of trees.
A West Haven towing company is lending their time and resources, to help the people of Washington Terrace clean up from the storm. Why they decided to help, and how people are reaching out to say "thanks," on @KSL5TV at 5&6pm. pic.twitter.com/DpwoPDAZAS
— Mike Anderson (@mikeandersonKSL) September 16, 2020
KSL reported last week that damage was so widespread that the mayor pleaded for everyone and anyone to help — and the folks at Stauffer’s Towing answered the call.
The cleanup is a break from the normal job for Chuck Hadley, who is the safety supervisor at Stauffer’s. But it’s still hard work.
Tow Truck safety supervisor Chuck Hadley says the work is hard but a nice break from the normal routine. (KSL-TV)
“We use this on a lot of semi accidents, a lot of heavy, hard to lift type equipment,” he said.
His rig can pull up to 60 tons. On Wednesday, the rig was lifting large stumps — and they don’t always come out easily.
“It creates its own challenge, just like anything else, and it’s good exercise for the guys,” Hadley said. His crew has been in the area since Monday, often welcomed by thankful residents.
Giant roots dangle from a tow truck. (KSL-TV)
“I just want to thank these guys, I mean seriously,” resident Dixie Burrell said. She made a point to stop by.
In more than 30 years of living in Washington Terrace, Burrell has never seen anything quite like this.
“This is just devastating. And I want to thank these people that have volunteered to come clean up these yards. I mean, it’s amazing,” she said.
Dixie Burrell is thankful to see the tow trucks doing the heavy lifting in her neighborhood. (KSL-TV)
Feedback like that is different from what the tow truck drivers see on the roadways.
“It’s very gratifying,” Hadley said. “We’ve had people come out and give us water and tell us thank you. Makes your heart feel good.”
Hadley added it’s good to see the difference they’re making, especially since he lives in nearby Riverdale.
“Gives us a break from working with cars and trucks,” he chuckled.
The crew from Stauffer’s Towing expects to be in Washington Terrace and Riverdale through Friday, although Hadley said that could change as his list is getting longer.
