DAYVILLE – A Salem contractor will remove trees and trim branches along U.S. 26 in Dayville, starting this week.

The Oregon Department of Transporation hired R and R Tree Service to do the work, which could continue into March.

The goal is to remove hazardous trees that have dropped branches on the road, developed severe rot pockets and have cracked trunks.

Some of the large trees in the area are in poor condition and pose a hazard for pedestrians and motorists, said Tom Strandberg, ODOT spokesman.

The agnecy hired an arborist to evaluate the condition of the trees. New trees will be planted in the area in the spring, Strandberg said.