Right of Way Maintenance and Tree Trimming

Itasca-Mantrap maintains right-of-way areas to help provide safe, reliable electric service. Trees and brush growing too close to power lines can create hazards, cause outages, and lead to power “blinks.” Trimming or removing this vegetation helps reduce outages, improve power quality, and give crews safer access when repairs are needed.

Safety is the main reason we keep clear space around power lines. Electricity can travel through water, trees, metal, ladders, and people. Keeping trees and brush away from power lines helps protect members, the public, and Itasca-Mantrap crews.

Tree contact is a major cause of outages and power blinks. One tree touching or falling into a line can affect many members, not just one location. Maintaining proper clearance helps prevent longer outages during storms, strong winds, and severe weather.

Members may call Itasca-Mantrap to report a tree that is endangering a cooperative power line. Please note, Itasca-Mantrap is not a tree trimming service. We will determine whether crews can safely trim or fall the tree with our equipment. Before Itasca-Mantrap will trim or fall a tree, it must meet three specifications: the base must be within 25 feet of the electrical line; it cannot endanger buildings or other permanent structures; and it must endanger Itasca-Mantrap lines up to the meter, not member-owned lines beyond the meter. Approved work is typically completed in the fall or winter at no charge, but wood and cleanup are the member’s responsibility. If the tree does not qualify or cannot be safely reached, the member will need to contact a tree service.