Pruning

Utility Tree Pruning

We all know that trees are one of the top reasons for utility service interruptions. Utility pruning programs are necessary to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of vital services, such as electricity and other utility services, as well as protect roads, highways, sidewalks, buildings, and more.

Clearly the best way to deal with trees and utilities is to plant smaller-growing tree species whenever near (or under) power lines. But since this isn’t always the case, utility pruning is undertaken on potentially dangerous trees to maintain an acceptable level of safety, prevent the loss of critical services, and ensure the intended use of the facility.

Utility pruning is often perceived differently from other types of pruning because the objectives are different. But the tools and methods are similar and utility arborists are expected to adhere to the same professional standards as other arborists.

An increasing number of utilities follow the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 pruning standards, which promote directional pruning methods to minimize pruning stress and focus on tree health while obtaining necessary clearance from power lines.


9 thoughts on “Utility Tree Pruning

  • Some municipal power companies don’t do complementary utility pruning. Something to look into if your trees are getting close to cables.

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  • It’s great to see that more utility companies are starting to follow American National Standards Institute (ANSI) A300 pruning standards!

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  • I did not know this until today, but It’s definitely not shocking that trees and vegetation is the number one cause or power outages. Good article.

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  • That’s a shame that some municipal power companies don’t do complementary utility pruning even today. That should be mandatory on their part because of the extra dangers involved. Good article and video. Thanks!

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  • We have hired a maintenance contractor in Dartmouth ma for several years and would highly recommend them. Although we had a tough time this year due to COVID-19, Tom and the crew did a great job and cleaned everything up nicely! We still have some works for our entire front and backyard with tree removal and care services. Thanks, Davis

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  • Great share my friend. I like your insights n utility concerns regarding tree removal RI and tree services. We want to make sure that all trees at our home are properly taken care of because we want to prevent further damage and improve our property in the RI area. It was suggested that tree care and removal should be done by professionals who are highly trained and work safely with trees. So we have called Pawtucket Tree Services last week due to various concerns we have, now we feel very comfortable following their advice as they clearly know the trees than us. Anyway, please kindly posting more content like this. It will be a great help to readers, Big Thanks

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  • Very helpful info! Pruning large and mature trees focuses upon ensuring human safety and passage, and many people have concerned about my tree in strong winds or near power lines, they would feel safe that an old tree won’t fall on our house every morning. It’s true that it’s the best way to maintain an acceptable level of safety, prevent the loss of critical services, and ensure the intended use of the facility.

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  • Trimming in the winter is the best! Most trees and shrubs are dormant, and with fewer leaves, it’s easier to see what you’re doing.

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