We’re working to reduce the risk posed by vegetation near power lines in our service territory.
Garkane Energy has adopted a work plan to focus on wildfire mitigation and vegetation management efforts. This work is essential in the prevention of vegetation coming in contact with power lines and igniting devastating wildfires as well as reducing the number of power outages.
Garkane has contracted with Deseret Tree Worx for this work, the aim of which is to clear a minimum 15 to 20 feet (optimum) on either side of Garkane's poles. Canopies from trees outside the 20 feet distance will be trimmed back to the 20-foot threshold, but the tree not removed unless it is a danger tree. Danger trees are trees that are dead or alive that are leaning towards a power line and can reach the line if they fall. This is a national standard for vegetation removal around power lines.
Contractors will be using bucket trucks, climbing crews, mowing crews, and walk-in crews to accomplish the mitigation work plan. The company’s trucks will be clearly marked with Deseret Tree Worx, but if you are uncertain, please contact our office.
When the tree-trimming and vegetation removal project is near your property or near adjacent property owners, please keep in mind that you need to stay clear from their work area due to falling debris and the heavy equipment that they will be running, which hinders their ability to hear or see you.
We understand that our members value trees and vegetation around their properties, as do we. Our members also rely on Garkane to provide safe and reliable power, something we take very seriously. Many of our consumers have experienced a heightened awareness of the potential risks for forest fires and interruption of power supply due to wildfires that have taken place throughout the west. Combined with the impacts of regional fires, it is our hope our members understand the necessity of Garkane’s focused efforts on vegetation management.
For questions and more information about Garkane’s wildfire mitigation and vegetation management work, please email call our office toll-free, 800-747-5403.
Recommended trees to plant in Southern Utah
- Pekin Lilac
- Hedge Maple
- Golden Rain Tree
- Japanese Tree Lilac
- Amur Cork Tree
- Hophornbeam (Ostrya Virginiana)
- Chinese Date
- Amur Maple
- Mayday Tree
- American Hornbeam
- Serviceberry
- Thornless Cocksure Hawthorn
- Wintering Hawthorn Shubert
- Chokecherry
- Washington Hawthorn