Earth Day is April 22. Show the earth some love, and plant a tree. Choose the right tree for the right place and avoid future problems with power lines.

To avoid future electrical hazards, planting tips include:

  • Consider the mature height of trees. Any tree that can grow to 25 feet tall or more should not be planted near overhead power lines. A mature height of less than 15 feet is recommended.
  • Do not plant near underground utility services.
  • Tree roots can grow and interfere with underground pipes, cables and wires. Future repairs to these facilities could also damage the health and beauty of nearby plants and trees.
  • Keep areas around electric meters, transformers or other electrical equipment free of any vegetation that could limit utility service access.
  • Before digging, call 811, the local underground utility locator service so that accidental contact, damage and injuries can be avoided.