RIGHT-OF-WAY (ROW) MAINTENANCE

Trees are one of the leading causes of lengthy service interruptions to our members.  Trees and vegetation interfering or growing too close to power lines (in the utility right-of-way) can create a multitude of inconvenience and dangerous situations, including damage to equipment, blinking lights, fire threat, power outages, and a safety threat to the general public.  Plant and tree growth also create an easy route to the lines and equipment for children and wildlife who do not understand the potential danger of the lines.

Maintaining trees and brush at regular intervals is vital if we are to supply reliable electric service.  Your cooperation is essential and very much appreciated.  Letters are sent to JREC members prior to ROW work beginning in their area.

Crews from Zielies Tree Service will be performing right-of-way maintenance work.  Crews will be using serial bucket trucks and chainsaws to trim, cut, and remove trees within the Utility Maintenance Area (UMA).  Any trees outside the ROW that pose a threat to our lines, are considered a fire hazard, lean toward the line, or pose a potential public safety hazard will be removed.  The year after Zielies completes mechanical trimming, they follow-up with herbicide applications in areas underneath powerlines and around poles to help control growth until Zielies returns to the area.

Again any time an approved contractor is working, members in the area are mailed letters detailing the work to be completed prior to the contractor transitioning into the area.