Vegetation Management Matters
Dear Members of United Electric Co-op,
There’s something timeless about trees. They ground us. They remind us of where we’ve been and stretch toward what’s ahead. Here in our community, we take pride in the natural beauty that surrounds us—the shade on a summer afternoon, the colors that mark the changing seasons, the quiet strength of something that grows slowly but endures.
At the same time, we share another responsibility, 1 just as essential to our daily lives. It is the responsibility to keep the lights on, to power our homes and businesses, and to make sure that, when you flip a switch, the energy you depend on is there. United Electric works every day to balance preserving the beauty we cherish and delivering the reliable electricity you expect.
Keeping lines clear of overgrown vegetation plays a major role in preventing power outages. Nearly half of all power outages are traced back to trees and vegetation coming into contact with electrical infrastructure.
That’s why you may notice crews from United Electric or our trusted contractors working throughout the year. Our crews are highly trained to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. Their work might seem routine, but it’s anything but—it’s a proactive step that helps prevent problems before they start.
But beyond reliability and efficiency, there’s another reason this work matters—safety.
Electricity is a powerful force, and when trees grow too close to power lines, that power can become dangerous. Branches that touch lines—or even come close—can carry electrical current. Children climbing trees may not realize the risk. During storms, fallen trees can create hazardous conditions not only for families but also for our lineworkers working to restore service.
There’s also a financial reality we can’t ignore. Preventative maintenance, such as tree trimming, is far more cost-effective than repairing widespread damage after an outage. Left unchecked, overgrown vegetation can lead to more frequent disruptions and higher costs for everyone.
When planting new trees, consider their mature height and distance from nearby power lines. Trees that grow up to 40 feet should be planted at least 25 feet from overhead lines. Trees that exceed 40 feet should be planted at least 50 feet away. If you’re landscaping near pad-mounted transformers, keep shrubs at least 10 feet from the front and 4 feet from the sides to allow safe access. If your neighborhood has underground lines, don’t forget to call 811 before digging.
At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: a community that’s safe, resilient, and beautiful. At United Electric, we’re proud to be part of that effort. Our roots run deep here, just like the trees we work to care for.
Sincerely,
General Manager Michael Darrington