ASTORIA (AP) — Fallen trees have blocked some Oregon highways in the recent storms.

While state law requires that trees near roads be left alone, Clatsop County Sheriff Tom Bergin wants to clear some of them and make routes to Oregon’s north coast safer.

Some state officials agree.

“They don’t work for us very well,” said Oregon Department of Transportation forester Dan Lepschat, responsible for keeping roads safe from falling trees. “Frankly, we don’t want them.” He can write waivers to that rule and usually does when asked.

“Safety’s our number one thing,” Lepschat said. “Scenic highways are a nice idea, on the north side of the highway. On the south side - when you log - that’s a problem.”