New Vegetation Program Implemented

Beginning in 2007 you’re Cooperative, along with vegetation management contractors and other professionals reviewed its current vegetation management program with the goal of improving safety and reliability to everyone involved in the distribution of power including our employees, our contractors, and the general public.

The review resulted in several areas in which the Cooperative could improve upon, for sake of time, we will discuss the primary issue, which was the need to increase the clear width of right-of-way needed to effectively keep tree limbs out of the power lines.

By increasing the right-of-way width to a distance of 20 to 25 feet (See illustration below) it accomplishes several things; one it allows re-growth to occur for a period of approximately five years and greatly decreases the chance of the re-growth jeopardizing the power line. Two, it allows safer conditions and better access to perform routine and emergency maintenance which is very beneficial to you as a Member during times of ice storms and other natural disasters. Three, public safety. It is important to keep our facilities visible to the public so that they are aware of its existence as they perform activities near and around power lines such as construction and recreational activities.

Yard Trees. Why do you have to cut them?

Your Cooperative defines a yard tree as “a tree, naturally located or planted that is located upon the regularly maintained portion of a residential dwelling “. Your Cooperative generally tries to work with property owners on such trees as we realize the value these trees add to your property. The Cooperative generally asks that you allow these trees to be trimmed, again, to last until the next cutting cycle. The amount trimmed from these trees will vary depending upon the species of the tree. Soft wood trees tend to grow much faster than hardwood trees; therefore more trimming may be required on such trees. On the other hand, some yard trees, present a clear and present danger to either the power line, workers on the power line or potential members of the public or your family. Deaths have been reported of kids climbing in trees and coming into contact with power lines. These types of trees must be removed.

My trees and plantings provide privacy, promote habitat provide a windbreak and provide a dust control barrier. Why cut them?

Your Cooperative understands these common arguments, however, as a Cooperative we have an obligation to keep our power lines and right-of-ways clear from man made or natural obstructions. Obstacles such as these can cause safety hazards, power interruptions, and cause delays in power restoration if we have to spend time negotiating these obstacles. It is of utmost importance that we are able to access and maintain the power lines at all times. 

What happens to all of the waste from the cutting operation?

Tree limbs and other vegetation that is removed by either, cutting, trimming pruning or mowing produces allot of waste materials to be generated. This waste material is disposed of in one of the following ways; trees are cut and stacked along the edge of the right-of-way for natural decomposition, trees may be ran through wood chippers creating wood chips that are utilized by local property owners. Some of the wood is harvested for firewood by property owners or other persons who have gotten consent to obtain the wood. Waste materials are never sold or negotiated by either the contractor or your Cooperative.

What should I do if I have questions about tree trimming activities on my property?

Your Cooperative will be glad to answer any questions you may have regarding tree trimming activities or questions regarding the contractors. Your Cooperative will also assist you in tree planting activities and help provide suggestions for power line friendly trees. An employee of the Cooperative can discuss your questions concerns either by phone, by email or a personal visit on site. Our toll free number is 800-607-2027. Our office hours are weekdays 8:00am to 4:30pm.