Tree Maintenance Plan
Coexisting with Nature
Our Tree Maintenance Plan
We are currently working to create a larger buffer between power lines and nearby trees to eliminate more potential outage threats. Once all we have implemented this plan across our service area, we will continue to trim trees on a four-year cycle. Some outage-prone areas may be trimmed sooner. How is the plan working so far? Great! Since we implemented this plan in 2014, overall system storm performance has significantly improved.
The number of customers affected by tree-related outages in areas where we have trimmed trees has been reduced by 33%.
Trees and Power Lines Don't Mix
If you live on Long Island, you probably agree the beauty of our area is tied to our beautiful, lush trees. As part of our commitment to providing safe and reliable service, we have improved and expanded our vegetation management program to reduce outages while preserving the health of our trees.
- Tree branches can interfere with electric lines and cause power outages.
- Trees and tree limbs can tear down power lines during storms.
- Trees also can extend the length of an outage related to underground utility lines if they interfere with access to equipment.
- People who climb trees near power lines can be exposed to electrocution hazards.