MVEC has an extensive Right-of-Way tree-clearing and vegetation management program. Crews systematically inspect trees within our service area for two reasons:
- To ensure the safety of our members and the general public; and
- To manage trees that pose a problem for system reliability.
- The cooperative concentrates on primary power lines that have caused an outage or have the potential to cause one.
- The homeowner is responsible for secondary power lines from the transformer to the home. MVEC will provide complimentary de-energization of your affected secondary line while you make repairs.
2024 NOTICE: MVEC cycles around our 968-square-mile service area annually to keep up with tree growth, to be proactive in preventing power outages, and to keep the public and our crews safe from electrocution. In 2024, we are working in the Le Center, Montgomery, Rice Lake, and Eagle Creek substation areas. You may see bucket utility trucks from MVEC or Carr’s Tree Service, an independent tree-trimming service we utilize. Our Right-of-Way maintenance program helps prevent power interruptions by trimming or removing trees and brush which could be potential fire hazards or cause power outages. Tree-to-line contact can also cause momentary interruptions or blinks in power. Tree trimming helps prevent extended outages during storms or strong winds.
Clearance is Needed
MVEC has the right to trim or remove trees and spray brush growing within the right-of-way corridor (usually a roadway ditch). This is the zone around power poles and lines.
Right-of-way corridors will be:
- 20 feet for single-phase distribution lines on either side of pole center.
- 30 feet for multi-phase distribution lines on either side of pole center.
- Other options are available on a case-by-case basis. This Alternative Maintenance Proposal form must be filled out and on file with MVEC before proceeding.
- If you have additional questions regarding tree clearance on your property, call our Dispatch Center at 952.492.8255.
Tree Removal
Fast-growing, tall trees (such as elms, willows, and silver maples) located directly under primary wires can cause repeated outages. To prevent repeat outages and keep the cost of our services down, we prefer to remove these trees rather than frequently prune them. A representative of MVEC will notify the property owner before removing a tree.
