Trees are precious to FortisAlberta, but they can also be a challenge in providing safe, reliable electrical service. As the owner and operator of more than 60 per cent of Alberta’s total electricity distribution network, our focus is the delivery of safe, reliable electricity in an environmentally responsible and cost effective manner. Managing vegetation under or near existing facilities helps ensure these commitments are met while adhering to Alberta Electrical Utility Code requirements.
We use Integrated Vegetation Management principles and industry Best Management Practices to control vegetation around our power lines and facilities. We assess each site individually to determine the best method of vegetation management, factoring in both cost and environmental impact. Our strategy includes a variety of options for removing and managing undesirable plant species while also encouraging the establishment of plant species that provide diverse environmental benefits.
Sometimes our crews must make the difficult choice to severely prune or remove a tree. All too often, these actions could have been avoided if the tree had been planted a little further away. With proper planning, you can have a variety of beautiful trees and not worry about them conflicting with power lines in the future.
Think Before You Dig
Whether you’re gardening, planting a tree or putting up a fence, you can avoid a serious electrical incident by submitting a locate request.