Whether our goal is to create windbreaks, enhance shade, reduce carbon in the environment, or simply beautify our landscape, we must not overlook a fundamental aspect—ensuring the safe placement of tall-growing trees away from power lines.

Each year, we conduct routine maintenance of trees and other vegetation along nearly 400 miles of overhead rights-of-way, out of 1,480 miles of distribution lines and 20 miles of transmission lines. Our vegetation management activities are essential to maintain safe, reliable, and affordable electric service to our members. Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, it’s evident that trees played a significant role in power outages, constituting the primary cause with 148 incidents. The second and third causes were animals (92 outages) and weather-related issues (52 outages).

When it comes to planting trees, it’s imperative to recognize that their location can profoundly impact the integrity of power lines, influencing the reliability and safety of our electrical system. To mitigate potential issues, adhere to the guideline of planting large trees at least 35 to 40 feet away from the center of power lines. This ensures a 10 to 15 feet clearance for mature trees with a sprawling branch span of 40 feet in diameter. For new small trees and large shrubs, they can be planted within 35 feet of power lines, but their height should not exceed 15 feet.

Edgecombe-Martin County EMC works hard to provide you with safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. You can help by following these few simple guidelines when managing the trees on your property. Being aware of these dangers and how to avoid them can keep you, your home, and the trees safe.