Cobb EMC trims trees in neighborhoods

Cobb EMC crews - 2/9/11

Routine tree maintenance is being performed in neighborhoods by an electric co-op who says it will lessen losses from icy branches falling on lines and interrupting service. Some members say that Cobb EMC should only be providing electricity and not performing landscaping services on residential properties.

Cobb EMC supervisor Robert and a crew of five were on Susan Court in Marietta, Georgia, cutting back trees after last night’s snow. There was approximately an inch of accumulation in the Kerry Creek subdivision.

Three trucks and a chipper were involved in this job.

“This is routine maintenance. We’re trying to avoid potential dangers from ice forming on tree limbs and falling on power lines,” he said.

Robert said tree limbs should be between 10 – 15 feet away from overhead lines. Cobb EMC seeks approval from homeowners before entering residential yards to cut trees and pick up clippings.

Electric Membership Corporations, or EMCs, were first created in the 1930's to provide electricity to rural areas. Cobb EMC owns power plants, dams, wires, and distribution lines. 

 

“We have permission to cut down that popular tree in that yard,” he said.

Robert predicted that Cobb EMC will have jobs openings on maintenance teams in the near future because of retirements. 


He also expects temperatures to climb this weekend when he will take advantage of the good weather to ride his horse.
©2011 Tomi Johnson. All rights reserved.