Umatilla Electric Cooperative trims trees to minimize the likelihood of safety hazards and power outages. During high winds, strong thunderstorms, or snow or ice storms, limbs and even whole trees can fall on electric lines, tearing down energized lines and equipment. Broken limbs can cause outages just by making the right kind of contact with electric lines and equipment.
Usually, when homes are built, an easement is granted at the time of development that allows utilities the ability to access and maintain their equipment. Umatilla Electric Cooperative may therefore hold easement rights on the land on which power lines and poles are located. Umatilla Electric Cooperative requests landowners not to encroach on the easements with trees or buildings that may disrupt the operation of the lines.