Overview
Watch this video to learn more about
PSE's vegetation management program.
(1.84 MB WMV)
The Pacific Northwest just wouldn't be the place that it is without the amazing, lush variety of trees that surround us. From firs to alders and more, they add color, beauty and a sense that we are in touch with nature wherever we work and live. Unfortunately, when stormy weather blows through, those same trees can become hazardous if not properly maintained. They cause more than 2,400 power outages a year in our area. That's why Puget Sound Energy is committed to a year-round $10 million vegetation management program to help prevent power outages and the dangers caused by overgrown or fallen trees and branches.
Every day, PSE's certified arborists inspect the trees along PSE's power lines for potential problems, and our crews trim or cut those that may not make it through the next big storm. This comprehensive program prevents trees from interfering with our power lines – and ultimately helps keep the lights on.
As part of our vegetation management program, PSE devotes about $500,000 each year to replanting trees in our service area. For the past seven years, we've earned the Tree Line USA award from the National Arbor Day Foundation in recognition of our efforts to protect and enhance urban forests while ensuring reliable energy service.
To put the power of reliability into the hands of customers, PSE has developed a vegetation planning guide called "Planning Trees." The print and online handbook helps customers evaluate landscaping opportunities and is a how-to for planting trees and shrubs and tree care solutions. It also lists recommended trees and shrubs to plant near power lines.
According to the guide, planning trees can be as simple as selecting the right tree for the right location. The key is choosing trees and shrubs that are well-supported by the local climate, do not mature to more than 30 feet in height, are insect and disease resistant, and are aesthetically pleasing. The guide provides a listing of more than 55 tree and shrub species that fit these criteria. To obtain a copy of "Planning Trees" call PSE at 1-888-225-5773 and request the guide or download it here .
No matter where you live or what project you are undertaking, please remember to Call Before You Dig so that you have accurate information about any potential safety hazards.
Watch this video to learn more about PSE's vegetation management program. (1.84 MB WMV)
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