Vegetation Management

Protecting People, Trees, and Power Lines

A photo of a tree fallen onto powerlines
As a certified TreeLine USA utility, our goal is to provide safe, reliable utility service while also supporting abundant, healthy trees.

Trees play an important role in  the health and beauty of our communities, and we are committed to best practices that protect them while we work. Our process involves pruning back branches and other vegetation to keep rights-of-way clear and removing trees that are dangerously close to falling on a power line or pole.  

Why does vegetation management matter?

Proper vegetation management is one of the key strategies to maintain safe, reliable, and affordable electric service for our members. Click or tap the dropdown arrows below to learn more.

Safety

Reliability
Why not bury all utility lines underground?

Maintaining Tree Health

Our Vegetation Management Contractors follow guidelines set forth by the Utility Arborist Association, Tree Care Industry Association, and the National Electric Safety Code.  Trees that are pruned according to these standards are much more likely to maintain a healthy structure and appearance after pruning is complete.

Our crews are trained and qualified to recognize and rectify hazardous vegetation-related issues while minimizing the risks to our communities’ beautiful trees.

How much does Consolidated remove from trees?

What pruning guidelines does Consolidated follow?

Vegetation Management by Equipment Type

Our strategies for vegetation management vary based on the type of line and equipment. Please read through the information below to understand your role in vegetation management, as well as the guidelines we follow for primary, secondary and service lines, and pad-mount equipment.

Vegetation Management for Primary Conductors
Vegetation Management for Service and Secondary Lines
Vegetation Management for Surface-Mounted (pad-mount) Equipment

Plan before you plant.

When it comes to planting, location is everything. Trees and shrubs that are planted properly can provide beauty and shade to your landscape, or serve as a wind-block during winter. However, haphazardly planting trees or shrubs near overhead or underground power lines could endanger your home and hurt our ability to provide you with safe, reliable service in the future.

If you are planning to plant trees or shrubs in your yard, please take your time, and make sure you know where all underground and overhead utilities are located. 

Underground Utilities – Call 811!

Overhead Power Lines – Right Tree, Right Place

Access to Equipment

For more information and tree-planting guides, visit the Arbor Day Foundation’s website.