Tree Trimming and Planting

Understanding vegetation management

We're dedicated to bringing our customers reliable and efficient electrical service. Vegetation management is just one of the ways in which we accomplish this goal.

Tree trimming

Vegetation management is crucial for safe and reliable electrical service. Even if trees look like they have adequate line clearance, it’s important to remember other factors that change every day.

Factors to consider

• Periods of high demand can cause lines to run at maximum capacity. This can stretch them and cause them to sag.
• Weather conditions can lead to snow- or ice-covered lines. Again, causing them to stretch and sag.
• Trees can sway back and forth many feet. Without proper clearance they could contact energized lines.

 If trees on your property are growing into power lines, and it appears that the trees must be trimmed, please contact our Customer Service Center.

Tree planting

Are you considering planting new trees on your property? If your plan includes planting trees near or below one of our power lines, please call 800-257-4044 or 218-739-8877 during business hours. Vegetation planted on our company's right-of way must be pre-approved even if it's part of a Natural Resources Conservation Service or other federal or state agency-sponsored conservation plan.