CEC must address trees that pose safety and reliability issues before they cause injury or power outages. Trees with branches that could come into contact with power lines on windy days or trees which could fall into our lines during high winds all must be reviewed.
CEC uses pruning techniques that meet the American National Standards A300 Pruning Standards. These techniques utilize "natural, lateral, or directional" pruning methods. Branches that conflict with power lines are cut back to laterals directed away from the lines. When trees can not be pruned properly, removal is the only option.
The Citizens Electric herbicide program is based on IVM Best Management Practices. The herbicides are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency and have no grazing restrictions. See below CEC Herbicide Management document for further information.
When potential problems are found, planning is done and a bright yellow door hanger is left on our members' front doors informing them that tree contractors will be in the area to remove or trim problem trees. This door hanger provides information on our vegetation management program as well as contact information for CEC.
See below documents to help you better understand the importance of our role in managing vegetation for safety and reliability purposes.