Tree Pruning for Utility Line Clearance
Keeping the lights on is no small task
We occasionally receive complaints from people after we trim trees to clear the power lines. We understand that this service is not always the most aesthetically pleasing; however, in the interest of public safety and power supply reliability, certain clearances must be maintained. The electric companies have very strict protocols based on various voltages for how much clearance the wires necessitate. These clearances are to assure not only the reliable delivery of very important electricity that we all count on for, among many other things, light and heat, but also prevent potential injuries to the public through an energized tree or downed wires. Directional pruning is employed to train the tree to grow around the utilities instead of through them. All of our crews practice the latest, most up-to-date ANSI Z133 pruning standards and will always try to do what is best for the tree.
We are so lucky to rarely lose power these days. Losing power for 24 hours in today’s modern world rarely happens. What if you didn’t charge your phone? The horror, but seriously…
Most of the trees that grow into power lines are trees that have self-seeded. Whether that be on a country road or in an urban area. Trees do a great job of planting themselves in bad locations. When large trees grow into or over power lines, it is very difficult to manage them without making them look awkward. The utility arborists do their best to make good pruning cuts and make the trees look good, but their job is to clear the wires.
A large white pine pruned to keep the lines clear so electric service stays flowing
A newly planted Kentucky Coffeetree planted under power lines
The Dangers Of Trees Near Power Lines
Mistakes Municipalities Make
Unfortunately, many cities and towns still plant large trees under the wires. Everyone loves planting new trees, but this is not ideal. Even if you start when the trees are young, it is very difficult to manage these trees, considering how large they can grow.
Although the municipality’s hearts are in the right place, they are creating a maintenance annuity and potential problems with electrical service. A better option is to plant smaller trees under the wires to minimize the need to clear the wires and larger trees away from wires.
We do our best to balance all of these challenges, but it’s the power companies’ call and honestly, isn’t it better to have electricity than not?
The unfortunate reality is, this…
is much better than this.
If you have questions about tree service or plant health care or would like an estimate, give us a call at 978-768-6999 or click here to contact us.
If you’d like to learn more about Dangerous Trees The Top 7 Signs To Look Out For just click here.
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Visit our Google Website for our Lincoln Location here.