By Mark Belknap
March is a month of transition. It’s a time when winter still tries to cling on with its icy grip, yet the early flowers of spring begin to blossom. We spend our time perusing seed catalogs and preparing our gardens. We also start thinking about planting trees to beautify our homes and enhance wildlife and pollinator habitats.
In this month’s highlight, we focus on “Right Tree, Right Place.” We all recognize the numerous benefits of trees. Yet, as beneficial as they are, we must realize that not all species are suitable for every location. Have you ever seen a tree’s roots destroy a sidewalk, road or foundation? The same holds true for tall-growing tree species and electric power lines. Conflicts between trees and power lines can cause outages or even wildfires, especially during major storms and wind events. Over the years, I’ve seen many instances where someone failed to look up when planting a tree. Many species can reach heights of 35-40 feet in just a few years. As trees grow in canopy height and width, so can the cost of maintaining our rights-of-way.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
When planning your spring planting, consider the species’ growth potential. Reserve species that grow taller than 20-25 feet for areas well outside the electric distribution right-of-way. Plant small shrubs in the wire zone and small trees on the edges. Keep trees, shrubs and ornamental grasses away from pad-mounted transformers. Remember to call Miss Utility before you dig to avoid underground wires. Following storms and wind events, always report and stay away from fallen wires until cooperative personnel arrive.
Looking for great recommendations? Join us at our annual Arbor Day/Member Appreciation Day at the A&N Tasley headquarters on April 27, rain or shine. You can see planting demonstrations, talk to an arborist, and pick up free seedlings, planting guides and more. Most of the species we choose are excellent for wildlife and pollinators, and many are shrubs and low-growing. We hope to see you there. And remember, always Look Up!
Mark Belknap is the director of vegetation and environmental management at A&N Electric Cooperative. He has degrees in wildlife management and forest resource management from WVU. He is a wildlife biologist, certified arborist, certified arborist utility specialist, licensed professional forester, and habitat chair for the newly formed Coastal Virginia Chapter of Quail Forever.