SWEPCO gives locals tips on tree planting

Trees are the leading cause of electric power outages and contribute to “nuisance” problems, such as flickering lights and momentary outages, according to Southwestern Electric Power Company.

SWEPCO said just one tree limb in contact with a power line can disrupt electric service to dozens of families for blocks around.

“SWEPCO’s Forestry program is designed to reduce outages caused by trees through a program that combines line clearance work with public education on the importance of planting the right tree in the right place,” SWEPCO reported. “Planned line clearance work is carried out by professional tree service contractors under the direction of SWEPCO’s staff arborists. Following trimming standards set by the International Society of Arboriculture, these workers trim trees so limbs won’t interfere with electric lines.”

SWEPCO reported that these standards, coupled with proper trimming methods, preserve the tree’s health while providing safe, reliable electric service.

When SWEPCO has to remove a tree, SWEPCO foresters like to help property owners select the proper tree to replant.

“Planting the right tree away from power lines will help replenish local urban forests with quality trees and eliminate tree/power line conflicts,” SWEPCO stated. SWEPCO has consulted with arborists and experts to provide “Tree Tips: A Planning Guide” on their Website at swepco.com/lib/docs/community/projects/ tree-planting.pdf.

The objective of locating trees for shade is to shield your home’s roof and walls from the hot sun as well as to cool sidewalks and driveways that reflect heat. Energy savings can result with as little as 20 percent of the roof shaded, SWEPCO said.

“With 50 percent of the roof shaded, you can cut your cool- ing costs in half. Shade from trees and shrubs can also improve your air conditioner’s operating efficiency by 10 percent,” SWEPCO stated.

Shade tree TIPs from SWEPCO include:

• Medium and large variety trees provide excellent cooling because they shade your house and yard to help cool both outside and inside temperatures. Select trees with wide spreading branches and less dense shade.

• Consider seasonal sun angles when planting for shade. Homes with large south and west exposures need shade in mid-late afternoon sun.

• When planting to shade your air conditioning unit, be careful not to plant too close to the unit, blocking its air flow.

• It takes time for trees to mature enough to produce results, so start planning as soon as possible.

For more tips on planting trees, whether for shade or any other reason, and for advice on pruning them and deciding which types of trees to plant for which reasons, please visit SWEPCO’s Website above for illustrations and much more.