Hydro stepping up tree-trimming efforts

Manitoba Hydro will be trimming more trees and clearing more brush this summer.

The public utility is targeting trees that are too close to power lines, clearing vegetation around its infrastructure in rural areas and using herbicides, usually in rural or remote areas.

“While the utility has always worked to keep trees and brush away from its infrastructure, the company is taking more action along its power lines and equipment,” a Wednesday news release said.

Tree contact can spark fires and knock live power lines down. Hydro said tree contact is one of the most common causes of power outages in Manitoba and that there were 2,612 tree-related power outages last year. That is more than in any of the previous 14 years, the Crown corporation said.

Crews might enter private properties to trim or remove some trees, the release said, adding the utility provides advance notice except in emergency situations.