Ensuring safe, reliable electric service sometimes requires more than bucket trucks and traditional right-of-way equipment. In some locations, it even requires taking to the sky.
On August 6, a specialized contractor used a helicopter to assist with right-of-way trimming in a swampy section of Bertie County near Republican Road and U.S. Highway 17 South. Locals know this difficult-to-reach location as the “Snake Bite” area—a fitting name for terrain where conventional equipment cannot easily or safely operate.
“Maintaining our rights of way is an essential part of delivering dependable electric service,” said Cliff Neathery, Line Superintendent. “Trees and overgrown vegetation near power lines can create safety hazards and contribute to outages, particularly during severe weather.”
Because of the wet, rugged conditions in this area, bringing in standard ground equipment would have been difficult. Working with a specialized contractor and using equipment suited to the terrain allowed the necessary trimming to be completed safely and efficiently while minimizing the impact on the surrounding landscape.
Proactive right-of-way maintenance helps create valuable clearance around power lines, strengthens the resilience of our electric system and reduces the likelihood that falling limbs or overgrown vegetation will interrupt service. This work is especially important in locations where access can become even more challenging following heavy rain or a major storm.
The helicopter operation is just one example of the many tools, technologies and partnerships required to serve our communities. Whether our crews are working from the ground, from a bucket truck or alongside specialized contractors in the air, every effort is focused on protecting our electric system and reducing the risk of service interruptions.
It is all part of going the extra mile for the people we serve—and fulfilling our mission: Powering our communities through reliable electricity and next-gen broadband—rooted in service to our Member-Owners.
No matter the terrain or the equipment required, our commitment remains the same: to provide our Member-Owners with the safe, reliable service they depend on every day.
