CMP tree care will enhance service

Central Maine Power (CMP) will perform tree-trimming work in 17 communities in Penobscot and Piscataquis counties during the coming weeks. The work along utility lines is part of CMP’s $20 million annual vegetation management program to maintain the reliability of its transmission and distribution lines.

“We maintain nearly 25,000 miles of roadside distribution lines on a five-year cycle of vegetation clearing, inspection, and repair,” said CMP Spokesperson Gail Rice. “Trees contacting lines is the most frequent cause of blinking clocks and power outages, so customers should see better reliability as the crews trim along the roadsides in their towns.”

CMP’s arborists and contractors are working in Abbot, Beaver Cove, Big Moose Township, Blanchard, Dexter, Frenchtown, Greenville, Guilford, Lily Bay, Monson, Moosehead Junction Township, Parkman, Sangerville, Shirley and Wellington.

CMP urges motorists to use caution when they encounter tree crews working alongside Maine roads. “These crews play a key role in helping CMP provide the safe, reliable service that our customers depend on,” Rice said. “The work can be difficult, so we urge motorists who pass these crews to proceed slowly and at a safe distance.”

CMP contracts with professional arborists who are required to follow practices established by the International Society of Arboriculture. These include consideration for the health, shape, strength, growth rate, and appearance of trees before and after pruning. CMP notifies customers about its vegetation management activities every year with inserts in its bills. Customers can sign up to receive a notice when tree trimming is happening in their area. For more information, call CMP Customer Service at 1-800-750-4000.