Right-of-Way & Vegetation Management

Tree Trimming & Removal in the Right-of-Way

Tree trunks and limbs are ongoing hazards for safe and reliable electric service. Clearwater Power holds legal easements to cut or trim trees and shrubbery to keep them clear of the power line. Dead, weak, leaning or dangerous trees that are tall enough to strike poles or wires are also removed. The co-op also contracts crews who specialize in vegetation management. Right-of-way crews must cut, trim or remove vegetation that falls within our easement, everything within 15 feet each side of the power line.

Planning & Planting

Please do not plant trees that will grow (or fall) within 15 feet of a power line and the tree’s canopy is part of that growth. Everything that reaches within 15 feet each side of the power line falls in the utility right-of-way and will be periodically trimmed or cut down. Shrubs and low-growth vegetation are better, but utility equipment sometimes operates in that space and may damage plants.

Outside the Right-of-Way

The co-op’s priority is to manage trees and vegetation that are a danger to its primary distribution system. These are the trees that pose a threat to electric service for the greatest number of members. Some trouble trees may pose a danger to the member’s secondary line – the line going to the member’s meter. Tree trimming around this line is the responsibility of the member.For safety, members can request co-op crews to de-energize and drop the line while trimming takes place. This is done at no cost to the member by calling 208.743.1501.

If you identify a tree on your property that you think is an imminent threat and you are unsure about whose responsibility it is, please use the form below to contact us. (And please include any photos if possible)

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