 A team of experienced foreman from Central Hudson oversees the vegetation management program throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley, and work is performed by qualified tree service contractors. These contractors follow Central Hudson and industry standards and regulations, including those of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Occupational Safety and Health Administrations (OSHA).
Tree crews use a technique called “directional pruning,” which means cutting branches where they join another branch or at the trunk of the tree. This technique lessens or eliminates the number of unsightly stubs and maintains a more natural appearance for the trees. This method also reduces the chances for trees to develop disease, fungus or insect infestation.
Central Hudson performs tree trimming on both the Distribution and Transmission systems.
Routine distribution trimming addresses power lines that primarily run along local roadways to provide electric service to homes and businesses. Branches and limbs that may endanger electric lines are trimmed to gain at least 10 feet of side clearance and at least 15 feet of clearance above and below each of the conductors (greater clearances may be required depending on tree species and condition). Removal of overhanging limbs, branches and leaders from above electric lines is critical to maintaining and improving system reliability and safety. This is especially important for those branches or limbs that may contact lines under snow and ice load, as they are the leading cause of outages.
Tall growing tree species located beneath or directly adjacent to our line (within the utility Right-of-Way (ROW) with the exception of yard trees, are removed as they pose a risk to electric safety and reliability. Trees located outside of the utility ROW which may be dead, dying or are leaning heavily towards the electric lines are considered danger trees and will be removed with permission from the property owner. Notification letters are sent to customers in advance of tree trimming along the circuit.
Transmission trimming is outlined in Central Hudson’s Long Range Vegetation Management Plan, which is submitted, reviewed and approved by the New York State Public Service Commission. Transmission trimming addresses the nearly 600 miles of lines that deliver bulk power to the region. Transmission lines are typically located off-road, and are built on easements generally 100 feet in width. New state and federal standards require that all trees within the full width of these easements are removed. Dangerous trees outside of the easements are also removed, with permission from property owners (where applicable). Selective use of EPA approved herbicides, which are applied by Low Volume techniques using hand operated back pack equipment, ensures minimal herbicide usage to control tree growth within the easements. Central Hudson’s program encourages the growth of natural brush to prevent soil erosion and to provide a more natural habitat for meadowland birds and animals.
Service wires supply electricity from Central Hudson utility poles on local streets or roadways to homes and businesses. These lines are generally not trimmed by Central Hudson, but can be by a contractor hired by the home or business owner. Central Hudson crews will disconnect the line so that the contractor can safely trim or remove trees, and will reconnect the line when the work is completed. Call Central Hudson at (845) 452-2700 or 1-800-527-2714 to schedule a crew.
Central Hudson crews and contractors will perform necessary line clearing to facilitate electric service restoration. Due to the necessity to expedite repairs, crews do not chip or remove branches, logs or brush as a result of storm restoration. Property owners may contact their municipality to have the brush or wood removed.
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