Vegetation Management Plan

Transcription

1 Vegetation Management Plan

2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER 1. INTRODUCTION 2 2. SAFETY 3 3. RELIABILITY 3 4. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES 4 5. NEW RIGHT OF WAY GUIDELINES 6 6. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE 6 7. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SPECIFICATIONS 7 8. HERBICIDE MANAGEMENT SPECIFICATIONS CUSTOMER RELATIONS TRAINING CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT 14 APPENDIX 15 A. CEPA s Service Area 16 B. Reported Right of Way Outages ( ) 17 C. RUS Specifications for Right of Way Clearing 18 D. CEPA s Right of Way Easement 19 E. CEPA s Maintenance Schedule (2011 thru 2014) 20 F. Underground Decal 21 MISSION STATEMENT We exist to provide our member owners superior service and dependable electricity at the lowest possible price, and to improve the economy and quality of life in our community.

4 COAST ELECTRIC POWER ASSOCIATION S VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN 1. INTRODUCTION Coast Electric Power Association (CEPA) is a private, non profit electric cooperative serving approximately 90% of the land mass in Hancock, Harrison and Pearl River Counties. 1 This south Mississippi cooperative is responsible for managing over 6,300 miles of line with approximately 13,000 acres of rights of way. CEPA is dedicated to the principle of providing its member owners with safe and reliable power at the lowest possible price. A significant aspect in furthering this principle is an effective Vegetation Management Program. Over the past 70 years, CEPA has utilized a variety of methods to manage its rights of way. CEPA is currently using an integrated approach in right of way management by using mechanical methods, selective herbicide spraying and a natural approach. Generally speaking, CEPA s right of way management program involves mechanical trimming of rights of way from substations to the end of circuits. An emphasis is placed on the removal of trees that are located directly under the conductors and the removal of danger trees. Danger trees are trees with the potential to fail and threaten the reliability of overhead facilities. Danger trees may be dead, dying, diseased, damaged, leaning or otherwise structurally unsound. Selective herbicide applications follow within six to twelve months. This method of right of way maintenance should be very cost effective for CEPA s member owners. The objective of this plan is to allow CEPA to be more professional and efficient when dealing with line clearance issues. It is important to consider when managing rights of way that no single approach can be taken. It would be impossible to write guidelines that would fit every 1 Refer to Appendix B 2

5 situation however, following the guidelines in this plan should result in CEPA providing the best possible service for its member owners. 2. SAFETY CEPA s vegetation management cycle is currently every three to four years. Trees adjacent to electric facilities are trimmed far enough back to provide safe clearances the entire length of the cycle. The amount trimmed is determined by the tree species growth rate and the conductor s location. When trees are trimmed excessively to provide safe clearances, it may be necessary to remove the entire tree. CEPA places an emphasis on the removal of certain trees located directly under energized conductors. Trees removed have the potential to produce unsafe conditions and prevents the access and/or maintenance of electric facilities. Training is provided to help crews identify trees in need of removal. All electric utilities have an obligation to provide safe clearances around trees and energized conductors. CEPA s Vegetation Management Plan is a commitment to provide safe electric service to member owners while promoting a safe work environment for CEPA employees. 3. RELIABILITY CEPA understands the importance of providing dependable electricity for member owners. In 2007, the leading cause of CEPA s reported outages was due to right of way. One out of four reported outages was caused from vegetation related issues. Since then, CEPA s reported right of way outages has dropped by 63%. 2 While progress has been made there is still work to be done. 2 Refer to Appendix B 3

6 An effective vegetation management program is more than just a commitment to reduce the number of outages. When outages occur, for whatever reason, clear rights of way allow crews to locate and repair problems faster. In short, the faster problems are found and repaired the faster power is restored. Timely restoration improves the quality of life for member owners. 4. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES When managing rights of way, CEPA refers to Rural Utilities Services (RUS) and the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC). RUS sets the minimum clearances necessary to provide safe and reliable service. However, where more clearances are required CEPA refers to the NESC. Rural Utilities Service (RUS) The right of way shall be prepared by removing trees, clearing underbrush, and trimming trees so that the right of way is cleared close to the ground and to the width specified. 3 However, low growing shrubs, which will not interfere with the operation or maintenance of the line, shall be left undisturbed if so directed by the owner. Slash may be chipped and blown on the right of way if so specified. The landowner s written permission shall be received prior to cutting trees outside of the right of way. Trees fronting each side of the right of way shall be trimmed sym metrically unless otherwise specified. Dead trees beyond the right of way which would strike the line in falling shall be removed. Leaning trees beyond the right of way which would strike the line in falling and which would require topping if not re moved, except that shade, fruit, or ornamental trees shall be trimmed and not removed, unless otherwise authorized. RUS Part (c), Facilities must comply, be maintained, and be inspected according to the National Electrical Safety Code. 3 Refer to Appendix C 4

7 National Electric Safety Code (NESC) Section 218 Vegetation Management Vegetation that may damage ungrounded supply conductors should be pruned or removed. Vegetation Management should be performed as experience has shown necessary. Note: factors to consider in determining the extent of vegetation management required, but are not limited to: line voltage class, species growth rates and failure characteristic, right of way limitations, the vegetation s location in relation to the conductors, the potential combined movement of vegetation and conductors during routine winds, and sagging of conductors due to elevated temperatures or icing. Where pruning or removal is not practical, the conductor should be separated from the tree with suitable materials or devices to avoid conductor damage by abrasion and grounding of the circuit through the tree. At line crossings, railroad crossings and limited access highway crossings the crossing span and the adjoining span on each side of the crossing should be kept free from overhanging or decayed trees or limbs that otherwise might fall into the line. If excessive trimming is required to obtain safe clearance between trees and conductors, complete removal may be necessary. This is especially true when trees are located underneath conductors. Most tree species in the southern United States attain mature heights between 60 and 100 feet. Consequently, it is CEPA s practice to remove these trees in order to maintain the vertical and horizontal clearances mandated by the NESC. During power restoration, the applicability of the above standards may vary. Trees that are considered a hazard to the public are removed as quickly as possible and without notifying the landowner. 5

8 5. NEW RIGHT OF WAY GUIDELINES Before cutting new right of way, CEPA shall acquire a signed Right of Way Easement from the landowner documenting general right of way guidelines. 4 Special requests and agreements between CEPA and the property owners are also conveyed and documented at this time. Work Order numbers shall be documented on signed easements. Specifications and instructions are provided to the crew supervisor before the cutting of right of way begins. Cutting is accomplished by removing trees and underbrush from the right of way. All trees and underbrush are cut as low as the root structure will permit (not to exceed six inches above the ground). Trees can be cut into pulpwood or saw log lengths, cut into firewood sections or removed depending on the landowner s wishes. Danger trees located outside the limits of the right of way but tall enough to strike the wires in falling are also removed and disposed of properly. 6. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SCHEDULE Management schedules vary throughout CEPA s service area. Coastal areas typically are on a three year cycle due to the suitable environment for faster growth of vegetation. Urban areas are also on a three year cycle due to clearance issues between conductors and vegetation. Rural areas are typically on a four year cycle. Each District Right of Way Coordinator has hourly crews that help manage trouble spots that occur before scheduled management begins. CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator evaluates all feeders annually to determine if adjustments are needed in the current management schedule. 5 4 Refer to Appendix D 5 Refer to Appendix E 6

9 7. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SPECIFICATIONS Notification Before right of way management begins, CEPA will send out a press release giving details of the crews managing rights of way and the locations work will be performed. CEPA will also post this information on its Web Page and will update the status of right of way management monthly. A contact list will be provided to the Crew Supervisor before work begins. This is a list of customers CEPA has made arrangements with, had problems with or any general information that will make right of way management trouble free as possible. The crew supervisor or foreman is responsible for contacting customers on this list before work is performed on their property. The crew supervisor or foreman is also responsible for documenting names of customers, service location and general description of any new problems that may arise while managing rights of way and is responsible for providing the new information to CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor, who will be responsible for updating maps. The crew performing right of way management is also responsible for notifying the landowners or tenants of the work to be done. Attempts shall be made to contact residents and inform them of the crew s presence. If landowner is not at home, a door hanger shall be left (provided by CEPA). If customer doesn t respond after two working days, work shall proceed without any further notice. Should individuals refuse to allow cutting, CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor shall be notified immediately. Overhead Distribution Maintenance All primary, secondary, and services shall be trimmed, including deenergized lines. The minimum width to be cleared on three phase and 7

10 two phase power lines is 30, single phase power lines 20, open wire services 10 and on triplex or duplex services 6. Normal primary overhang clearance is to be 30 or greater. This clearance is measured from the highest wire whether shield or phase conductor. The crew is expected to cut to a height above the lines which their equipment will reach, but the minimum required clearance is as specified. Trees shall be pruned to the most applicable standard between RUS Guidelines, NESC or ANSI A300. Trees pruned by Jarraffs shall be cut as close to tree base as possible, to avoid leaving stubs. Trees located under primary conductors shall be removed. Should landowner refuse, System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor shall be notified immediately. All poles and guy wires shall be cleared to the ground from trees, underbrush and vines a minimum width of 10. All stumps less than 6 in diameter shall be left no more than 2 above ground level. Larger stumps will be allowed to exceed 2 at the discretion of CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor. No cut stumps shall be left pointed where injury to humans, injury to animals, or tire puncture could occur. Danger trees that can reach power lines shall be removed or topped. Danger trees are trees with the potential to fail and threaten the reliability of overhead facilities. Danger trees may be dead, dying, diseased, damaged, leaning or otherwise structurally unsound. Trees that are topped by Jarraffs shall be removed to the ground. Trees and underbrush growing in fences shall be cut just above the top of fence, with the sides neatly trimmed. However, if property owner requests that vegetation growing in fences to be cleared at ground level, the crew shall be responsible for clearing. All arrangements with customers shall be documented. 8

11 The crew shall enter customer s property only when necessary to complete work and shall behave professionally while working on property. The crew will be required to make his own arrangements for equipment storage, parking, etc. CEPA will not allow the parking of equipment in its substations. Complaints shall be handled the day called in or on the following work day if necessary. All damages shall be repaired within a timely manner. It is the crew s responsibility to adhere to all Local, State and Federal ordinances and laws. The crew shall provide all necessary warnings and flagmen where required to protect the driving public. Crew members and equipment shall maintain a presentable appearance at all times. Crew members shall have shirts with company logo or some form of identification badge. Equipment shall be marked with company logo. Any hazardous condition discovered or caused by crew shall be reported immediately to CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor. A crew member shall remain at site until a CEPA representative arrives. Underground Distribution Maintenance Trees or vegetation shall be removed from over conductors and from around electric facilities. Trees or vegetation that prevents the access or maintenance of underground facilities shall also be removed. Decals listing planting zones should be placed on electric facilities. 6 6 Refer to Appendix F 9

12 Clean up Debris in maintained yards should be removed immediately after cutting unless otherwise directed by property owner. All debris in wood lines should be removed within 48 hours after cutting unless otherwise directed by property owner. At no time will debris be left where it will block drives, mailboxes, fire hydrants, etc. The crew will respond in a timely manner to all requests made by CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor. Debris piled up at the base of trees should be moved away from the tree and bush hogged or chipped. All debris left by bush hogs will be allowed to remain, unless the landowner or a CEPA representative objects. The crew is responsible for making arrangements for debris disposal. The wishes of the landowner must be respected regarding debris. 8. HERBICIDE MANAGEMENT SPECIFICATIONS General The full width of the established right of way should be treated with selective herbicide spraying to control woody type trees and brush. The right of way width that will be maintained varies between 20 and 30. In addition, all vines on poles, guy wires and overhead stub poles should be treated on entire circuit. Control of woody type vegetation shall be considered sufficient where 98 percent of the targeted vegetation is killed. Percentage of kill will be determined by CEPA the following summer to ensure that no resprouting of treated vegetation has occurred. Areas of treated right of way showing evidence of insufficient kill shall be retreated at no cost to CEPA. This re treatment shall take place within one (1) year of original treatment. 10

13 All equipment, herbicides, personnel, and materials necessary to perform the work shall be supplied by the contractor. Contractor must conduct themselves in a safe and professional manner while working or dealing with customers and/or property owners. Contract crews must have working knowledge of herbicides. Contract crews must be able to communicate and explain application operations to interested customers and/or property owners. Contractor employees involved in the application of herbicides and/or adjuvants must have all federal, state and local licenses, certificates and permits that are required by law. A licensed commercial pesticide applicator (MS) shall be present on the job at all times. In the event that property owners object to herbicide treatment of undesirable tree or brush species, the work shall be postponed for that area. Such problems shall be reported to CEPA s System Right of Way Coordinator or Supervisor immediately. Contractors shall be responsible for any off right of way and/or chemical drift type damages. Contractors must be able to immediately resolve and/or satisfy any claim associated with performing, handling, shipping, storing, or applying of herbicides associated with CEPA rights of way. Contractor is fully responsible for proper disposal of all chemicals and containers. Contractors shall be responsible for locating sensitive and/or restricted non vegetative right of way areas where herbicides, as specified on the manufacturer s label, should not be applied. All herbicide mixtures and formulations will be applied according to label directions and/or to manufacturers recommendations. Under no circumstances shall herbicides be applied at rates exceeding label recommendations. Herbicides to be used shall be selected only from those labeled specifically for use on utility rights of ways. No generic formulation herbicides shall be used. 11

14 Contractors must be able to transport all necessary herbicides and herbicide agents from one job location to another. All spray units will be leak proof and spill proof. All spray equipment will be sealed so leakage will not occur from tanks, pumps, spray hose connections, etc. Any equipment found not meeting this requirement will be just cause for stopping work. Repeated failure to eliminate such leakage will be just cause for cancellation of the contract. It is the crew s responsibility to adhere to all Local, State and Federal ordinances and laws. Each individual project, as shown on the proposal form, shall be completed prior to beginning work on the next project. Order of completion of projects is at the contractor s discretion. Wetlands Only a wetlands approved herbicide may be used when spraying within 20 of a stream, river, pond, lake, or wetlands area. Under no circumstances shall any herbicide (wetlands approved or otherwise) be sprayed directly over water where no vegetation exists. Contractor shall not clean equipment, tanks, hoses, or other materials related to herbicide applications in streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or wetland areas. Documentation Contractor shall provide CEPA herbicide reports of all applications. Reports shall contain the following information: the location of herbicide application, the date applied, the amount applied, the name of each herbicide being applied and the name of the certified applicator. These reports shall be supplied to CEPA after the job is complete. 12

15 9. CUSTOMER RELATIONS Except in emergency situations, customers are notified when maintenance activities are scheduled on CEPA s right of way. Customers are notified by local newspapers, door hangers or on CEPA s internet site. The internet site provides customers with information concerning the type and location of maintenance being performed on CEPA s system. The information is listed by County, followed by the location management is being performed and the crew performing work. Customers can also acquire information by contacting a CEPA Right of Way representative directly. Notification is also made by individual customer contact at the time the work is being performed. If the customer is not at home, a door hanger is left at the customer s residence describing the type of work planned for the right of way on their property. A telephone number is also provided on the card should the customer have questions or comments. Customers often make special requests by phone, letter or in person that are recorded by service orders. Once a request has been made, district right of way coordinators will inspect the request and code the service order as follows: Code 1 immediate attention is required (high priority) Code 2 complete as soon as possible (medium priority) Code 3 complete when crews become available (low priority) Code 4 CEPA is not responsible for the request All requests are tracked by computer and by the district right of way coordinators. A Cutting and Trimming Agreement may be used depending on the request. Open service orders are closed out by each district when completed. Any arrangements, problems or beneficial information concerning right of way management and customers shall be edited on map. This information will be provided to right of way management supervisors before work is started on each feeder to avoid future problems with customers. 13

16 10. TRAINING CEPA Right of Way Representatives and Employees involved with right of way issues should be familiar with the guidelines and procedures provided or referred to in this Plan. Right of Way Representatives may also be required but not limited to receive classroom or on the job training in the following areas: RUS Guidelines ANSI A300 Pruning Techniques NESC Section 218, Vegetation Management Current Arboriculture issues Hazardous tree recognition Tree identification Communication with customers UAI or current mapping training Safety procedures CEPA Vegetation Management Plan 11. CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT CEPA s goal as an electric cooperative is to provide safe and reliable service at the lowest possible price. This requires a consistent, professional commitment to right of way management and a desire not only to consistently follow the specific provisions of its plan, but to initiate change as the need may arise. CEPA intends to formally review this plan in the year 2015 and will update as additional information becomes available. CEPA s Right of Way Department will continue to make every effort possible to manage rights of way in the most professional, cost effective methods available. 14

17 APPENDIX CEPA VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN 2011 THRU

18 CEPA s Service Area APPENDIX A 16

19 Reported Right of Way Outages (2007 thru 2010) APPENDIX B 17

20 RUS Specifications for Right of Way Clearing APPENDIX C 18

21 Example of CEPA s Right of Way Easement APPENDIX D 19

22 CEPA s Maintenance Schedule (2011 thru 2014) APPENDIX E 20

23 Underground Decal APPENDIX F 21

24

25