La Plata Electric Association continues tree trimming and removal

Crews target “hazard” trees posing potential impact to electrical equipment  

DURANGO, Colo. – To help ensure safety and reliability of electricity transmission, La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) will be performing regularly scheduled, routine inspections and maintenance on overhead lines in south and west La Plata County during the coming months, as weather permits. The effort includes the safe trimming and removal of trees that pose a hazard to electrical system lines.

LPEA crews will be working in residential areas including, Highway 151 to Arboles and Navajo Lake plus those county roads off of Highway 151; and County Road 334, from Shenandoah west to Highway 140 at 20486 and north to Hesperus and County Road 120 to the 7590 block.

 “This is part of our on-going effort to keep the system intact and maintain delivery of safe and reliable electricity,” said Steve Gregg, LPEA operations manager. “When you see the crews out on the road, say hello. They’re working to protect you.”

According to LPEA officials, removal of hazardous trees or branches is necessary for public safety, to decrease the potential for power outages and to avoid the possibility of fires caused by limbs or trees falling onto or through power lines.

A “hazard” tree is any tree that is dead, damaged, infested with insects, showing evidence that the root system is jeopardized or unstable, and/or one that may be leaning toward power lines and is tall enough to come into contact with LPEA electrical equipment if it were to fall. Trees growing within LPEA’s power line right-of-way may also present a hazard to electrical equipment as they mature.

Felled trees will be limbed and left for property owners’ use or disposal. Trails and roadways will be cleared of debris by LPEA.

LPEA customers with additional questions or concerns are urged to call Roland Pack, 382.7183 or Ben Cordova, 382.3534.

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