MB Hydro to step up tree trimming

Manitoba Hydro promised a return to more intensive tree trimming and vegetation management in a July 23 press release, saying they want to enhance the safety and reliability of Manitoba’s electrical system.

The utility says that while they’ve always worked to keep trees and brush away from their infrastructure, this announcement promises more action.

Manitoba Hydro crews or contractors will enter property to trim or remove trees that are too close to power lines.

Tree contact as the cause of power outages has been a growing issue.

In Manitoba last year there were 2,612 tree-related power outages, more than in any of the previous 14 years.

“Tree contact can spark fires and bring down live electrical lines, which is a safety hazard for anyone nearby and for Manitoba Hydro’s crews sent to repair them,” they said in the press release. “Dense foliage can make it difficult and more dangerous for Manitoba Hydro crews to find and work on fallen power lines.”

The utility will also use heavy machinery to clear brush around their infrastructure in rural areas and herbicides to prevent growth of specific vegetation.

In urban areas trees will be trimmed but may need to be removed entirely depending on the species, location and hazard they pose to power lines.

To find out if a tree poses a risk to overhead power lines, members of the public can fill out a tree assessment survey at www.hydro.mb.ca. Crews will come out to determine if a tree needs trimming or removal.