Eversource announced Wednesday they plan to conduct extensive tree trimming and removal of hazardous trees in Connecticut this year.
Tree trimming will be performed in 130 communities in the state.
Some of the most extensive work will in Greenwich along 116 miles of electric lines.
In a release, Eversource cited last year’s back-to-back nor’easters and destructive tornadoes which brought down tens of thousands of trees in the state, resulting in damage to the electric system and power outages.
Eversource said they plan to invest approximately $83 million for the tree trimming and hazardous tree removal this year.
“The long-lasting effects of the drought that plagued the region over the last several years, coupled with consecutive infestations by the gypsy moth and the emerald ash borer have weakened trees around the state,” said Eversource Vegetation Management Manager Alan Carey in a release.
Mr. Carey said Eversource’s team of licensed arborists are expert at identifying trees that threaten the electric system and aim to work with community leaders to balance aesthetics and the need for reliable electricity.
As part of its comprehensive vegetation management plan for 2019, Eversource will be trimming trees along more than 4,000 miles of overhead lines around the state.
Eversource notifies customers in advance if trimming is necessary on their property.
In addition to all the work Eversource crews do to minimize the effects of trees on electric reliability, the company reminds customers that homeowners are responsible for tree maintenance on their own property.
That includes keeping branches away from the lower-voltage service wires connecting their homes and businesses to the main utility lines on the street. Eversource strongly recommends contacting a professional tree service to perform this work.
For details on the company’s comprehensive vegetation management program, please visit Eversource.com.