Distribution Line Tree-Caused Disturbances

Abstract

One of the primary functions of utility arborists is the supervision of tree maintenance along distribution lines. While distribution systems vary widely from one utility company to another, the underlying reason for tree maintenance expenditures is universal throughout the industry. Trees must be controlled. Utility arborists must continually make decisions regarding the placement of tree maintenance crews. Tree maintenance must be performed in those areas that have the highest potential for future tree-caused interruptions. Accurate identification of these high priority areas is the key to crew scheduling that will consistently make optimum use of available tree maintenance dollars. Organized reporting and analysis of tree-caused disturbances is one means of identifying high tree maintenance priorities. The utility arborist armed with a disturbance reporting system, a measure of common sense, and a first-hand knowledge of field conditions is capable of making consistent "on target" decisions when scheduling tree maintenance crews.