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Right-Of-Way Guidelines

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  1. Outage & Safety
  2. Right-Of-Way Guidelines

powerlinesFarmers Electric is dedicated to providing our members a safe and reliable energy source-electricity.  However, trees planted too close to our power lines can significantly impact our ability to deliver a safe and reliable product.  A clear right-of-way is essential.

yardclearanceTrees growing in or around the power lines are the #1 cause of blinks and outages on our system.  For our members, this means inconvenient interruption in service.  For us, it means a trouble call for our line crews and an added expense.

Both the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) require electric cooperatives to have effective Tree Trimming, Right-of-Way (ROW) Clearing and Maintenance Programs in place.

Farmers Electric Cooperative Right-of-Way (ROW) Program:

Farmers Electric will maintain ROW clearance over, along, and across the premises where the power lines are located.  Cycles and methods are determined using best judgment, knowledge of local factors, and industry standards.  The cooperative uses contractors and employees to preform ROW work.

Farmers Electric Program Consists of a Combination of:
  • Tree and brush pruning

  • Removal of hazardous trees

  • Chemical treatment on smaller trees in ROW or to impede future growth

How Can You Help?

Members can help by trimming trees and underbrush that could grow to interfere with ROW guidelines.  For safety reasons, don't attempt to remove or trim trees already near or touching the lines.  Call Farmers Electric and we will ensure that a crew takes action and prevents possible power loss.  When crews are on your property, please allow them to remove trees and underbrush near power lines.  

When planning future landscaping, consider the mature size of trees and shrubs to determine a proper planting distance.  The planting guideline below can help you choose the best vegetation for you and your cooperative.  Together, we an find solutions that allow trees to flourish while maintaining a clear ROW for power lines.  

Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place

Tall trees should be planted away from overhead utility lines.

treeplanting

 

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Contact Info

Farmers Electric Cooperative, Inc.

2389 Highway 92
Greenfield, IA 50849 


Office: 800-397-4821

Our Mission

To safely provide our members with electric service at the lowest possible cost, consistent with sound business practices.

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©2023 Farmers Electric Cooperative. All Rights Reserved.

  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Annual Meeting
    • Board Of Directors
    • Employees
    • Guiding Documents
    • Mission Statement
    • Power Supplier
    • Publications
    • Service Territory
  • My Account
    • Billing Information
    • Capital Credits (Deferred Patronage Dividends)
    • Understanding My Bill
    • Rates
    • Start/Stop Service
    • Metering
    • Power Outage Tips
    • Payment Options
    • Rebates
    • Contact Us
  • Community
    • Iowa Youth Leadership Academy
    • Youth Tour
    • Economic Development
    • RECare
    • Scholarships
    • Touchstone Energy®
    • Operation Round-Up
  • Member Benefits
    • Brochures
    • Forms
    • Rebates
      • Residential Rebates
      • Commercial Rebates
      • Agricultural Rebates
    • Services
  • Outage & Safety
    • Generator Safety
    • Grain Bin Clearance
    • Iowa One Call
    • Kids Stuff
    • Statewide Outage Information
    • Right-Of-Way Guidelines
    • Safe Electricity
  • Energy Efficiency
    • Appliance Recycling
    • Rebates
    • Touchstone Energy® - Energy Solutions
    • How A Heat Pump Works
    • Watts $Mart
  • Energy Options
    • Wind & Solar
    • Green Pricing Program
  • Legislative
    • Cooperative Action Network
    • Grassroots