Tree Trimming

Many power interruptions are caused by trees, either by limbs rubbing on wires or the wires being torn down by falling branches or trees. When this problem occurs on a primary line, it can cause a service interruption across a wide area. Fallen wires can still be energized and should never be touched. Warn others to stay clear and call our office immediately, should you discover this situation.

Proper Tree Selection and Planting

Where to plant:

1. Determine location of overhead and underground utility lines. Remember, trees are more than just what you see overhead. Often, the root area becomes larger than the branch spread above ground.

   Since many different types of utility services are now buried, please call Diggers Hotline at 800-242-8511 or 811 before you begin to dig. The location of these facilities should directly correlate to your choices of tree type and site selection. Do not assume that utility lines and facilities are buried deeper than you plan to dig. In some cases, underground facilities are very close to the surface.

2. Determine type of tree. Consider its height at full maturity and the root area it will require. Remember, trees grow in width as well as height.

   Trees that will reach 25 to 50 feet high at maturity should not be planted within 30 feet of overhead electric lines. Trees that will reach 50 feet or more at maturity should not be planted within 50 feet of overhead electric lines. Children or adults climbing in trees can receive severe or fatal injuries if they come in contact with the overhead wires.

   Low-growing trees that will not grow taller than 20 feet may be planted closer to overhead power lines. However, Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative asks that you do not plant trees or shrubs in close proximity to our poles or any padmount transformer or junction box, as the tree will limit access to equipment by our crews. Please maintain a buffer zone of about 15 feet from all utility lines and equipment.

   Consult your local nursery or the County Extension office for information to help you select trees that will be appropriate for your property.

Tree Trimming and Removal

Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative uses a contractor to trim or cut any tree that is in close proximity to our power lines on a 5 year cycle. We do not trim or cut trees that are beyond a member's meter. If you notice a tree getting too close to our power lines, please call and report it to our office. We will come out and trim it back from our electric lines, it may save us a power outage in the future. Any help you can give to cleaning up branches or trees is much appreciated.

You can call or email our line department at line@srec.net