WHY VEGETATION MANAGEMENT MATTERS by Ryan Campbell, P.E.

There’s something timeless about trees. They ground us, offer shade on summer afternoons and reflect the beauty of each changing season. In our community, that natural landscape is something we all value. At the same time, we share an equally important responsibility, ensuring reliable electricity for our homes and businesses. At EREC, we work every day to balance preserving that beauty with delivering the power you depend on.

One of the most important ways we do this is through regular tree trimming. While it may seem routine, managing vegetation near power lines is essential to preventing outages, especially during severe weather. In fact, nearly half of all power disruptions are caused by trees and branches coming into contact with electrical infrastructure. Our Right-of-Way crews work year-round using industry best practices to identify risks early and address them safely and efficiently.

Vegetation management is not only about reliability, it’s also about safety. Trees growing too close to power lines can carry electrical current, posing risks to children, families and lineworkers, particularly during storms. Preventative maintenance also helps control costs, reducing the need for more expensive repairs after major outages.

You can play a role, too. When planting trees, consider their mature height and distance from power lines, and always call 811 before digging near underground utilities. By working together, we can maintain a community that’s safe, resilient and just as beautiful for generations to come.