MONROE CO. – Duke Energy will begin tree trimming along high-voltage power lines from Bloomfield to Bloomington over the next seven days, weather permitting. The work, part of a broader initiative, will extend to Spencer, Ellettsville, and Martinsville later this month. The utility said the effort is crucial to ensuring safe and reliable power delivery across the region, which serves thousands of customers.
Property owners along the affected corridors have been notified via mail, in person, or with door hangers. Areas where the work will be conducted, including those using helicopters, have been flagged and marked.
Federal regulations require that key power transmission line corridors remain free of vegetation that could interfere with the safe operation and maintenance of power lines.
To assist in this work, Duke Energy will employ a specialized helicopter tree-trimming crew, particularly for accessing rugged and remote terrain that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
The helicopter will have a 33-foot aerial saw featuring circular blades attached to a 90-foot cable encased in pipe. The saw blades have a 24-inch diameter and are tipped with carbide, designed to cut through tree limbs precisely. The Teflon coating between the blades ensures smooth operation, allowing limbs to slide off and reducing the risk of damage to the saw’s belts.
Duke Energy emphasizes that the trimming will help maintain the electric system’s reliability, which powers homes and businesses in the area. If residents have any questions or concerns regarding the project, they are encouraged to contact the utility’s vegetation management staff at 800-723-9684.
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