A Call to Respect Power & Fiber Lines During Dove Season

As we approach dove season, I want to address an important issue that has come to our attention.
With the addition of high-speed internet fiber running alongside and beneath our electric lines, we are encountering new challenges we need to address together.
Historically, hunting on the lands near our power lines has not led to significant problems. However, the installation of these new fiber optics, protected by glass tubing, has introduced a new risk.
When shot, this glass tubing can shatter, causing extensive damage to the fiber optics and leading to costly repairs and disruptions to internet and phone services for our community.
Shooting at power and fiber lines is not only hazardous but also a federal offense. The damage resulting from such actions can be substantial and may cause prolonged outages affecting local homes and businesses. This is a matter of safety and responsibility.
Moreover, the cost of repairing damage to our infrastructure directly affects our operational expenses. When we can avoid these costly repairs, we are better able to keep overall costs down. In turn, this helps us pass those savings on to you, our valued members, ensuring your bills remain as affordable as possible.
As we enter dove season in Florida, I urge all our members to avoid shooting at birds perched on or near these lines. This is not just a seasonal concern but an ongoing commitment to protect our infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted service for everyone in our community.
We understand many of you have been hunting in these areas for years without incident. However, the presence of high-speed fiber requires a new level of caution. We are sharing this message to help spread awareness and prevent damage that could affect your neighbors and our services.
Let’s work together to preserve the safety and functionality of our power and fiber lines, and in doing so, help keep costs down for all our members.