Our right-of-way team works year-round to help reduce the impact of vegetation on power lines. This process ensures the safety and reliability of the electric service provided to the communities we serve. LREMC utilizes a three-year tree-trimming and herbicide treatment cycle to maintain more than 5,900 miles of electrical lines across Cumberland, Hoke, Robeson, and Scotland counties.
Please note that our tree trimming is a two-phase process: (1) a tree trimming crew will perform all necessary trimming, (2) a second crew will be on-site within 24-48 hours to clean up and remove the debris left behind by the tree trimming crew.
It may be necessary for LREMC or its contract crew to take down tree(s) in some instances. Our team will either leave the tree(s) and wood at the site or remove them. The property owner may leave the wood on-site by signing a waiver form. If agreed to and signed, LREMC is no longer responsible for the tree or the wood left at the site. If the member chooses to remove the tree(s) or wood, LREMC will clean up before leaving the property or clear with the member to leave it and come pick it up another day. In addition, LREMC will not remove deadwood from a member’s property; however, we will move it to a different location on the property at the member’s request.
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT FAQS
Why does LREMC trim trees?
Trees growing in or near power lines can cause outages and be dangerous. If a tree touches a power line, it can give the electrical current a path to the ground; this creates a potential hazard to crews restoring power, people, and animals. Trees in or near power lines can also cause power outages by interrupting the flow of electricity or damaging the distribution line.
Which Trees will be trimmed?
LREMC maintains right-of-way easements to provide essential services to members. We maintain a right-of-way of approximately 25 feet on both sides of the power line. We will trim or apply herbicide to any vegetation growing into that space or having the potential to infringe on that area.
How will I know if I have trees that need to be trimmed?
Before we start tree trimming, we will notify you by phone to inform you of crews trimming in your area. We will also post current trimming locations, as shown above. If you request a vegetation management representative to look at a particular tree on your property, we will leave you a door hanger describing the work and a phone number to reach us.
Who performs the trimming?
LREMC contracts with experienced companies certified in vegetation management. Contractors use bucket trucks, climbing gear, and other equipment to trim trees encroaching on LREMC’s right-of-way. Because of the dangerously high risks in trimming trees near power lines, LREMC crews are trained to trim trees growing into the right-of-way safely. LREMC strongly discourages anyone other than trained professionals employed by the cooperative from trimming vegetation near power lines or in the right-of-way.
Will LREMC remove trees instead of trimming them?
Our team will meet with homeowners who wish to have a tree removed to determine whether the tree is endangering the power lines.
Does LREMC use herbicide?
We do use herbicide along some right-of-ways. The herbicides we use are approved by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and are applied only by licensed contractors. When applying herbicide, contractors stay clear of zones such as water sources, farmland, and fences. You can request that we not use herbicide on your property by calling (910) 843-4131 or emailing us with your name and address to support@lumbeeriver.com.
*A complete list of herbicides used on our right-of-way, along with labels and material safety data sheets, can be reviewed at https://southeastwoodland.com/labels/
Can I plant trees near or under the power lines?
Never plant trees near or under power lines. Consider the size, growth rate, and plant species before planting vegetation near the right-of-way. Vegetation that grows into LREMC’s right-of-way will be trimmed or cut. Plant vegetation outside of our right-of-way to eliminate safety risks and the potential for trimming.
Who is responsible for trimming trees that interfere with the service line between the transformer and the member’s home?
Our team typically does not remove trees that affect the service line from the transformer to the home. However, when trees contact the service line, we will disconnect the service so the member can remove the trees. When the removal is complete, we will reconnect the service. To request a disconnection of service for tree removal or if you have questions about trees in power lines, please get in touch with us at (910) 843-4131 or email support@lumbeeriver.com.
LREMC’s Trade A Tree Program
By participating in Lumbee River Electric’s “Trade a Tree Program.” You can help drive down energy costs by allowing us to remove the high-maintenance tree(s) from our power lines. Here are the options:
Option 1: We will buy a quality tree of your choice from an approved list at no cost to you on the following conditions:
(1) The tree cannot be planted inside of our power line right-of-way.
(2) The tree is available from our nursery stock.
(3) You are the owner of the tree that is to be removed.
Option 2: A gift certificate will be provided to pick out any plant you would like on the condition that you are the owner of the tree to be removed.
Please note that it is the property owner’s responsibility to plant; provide proper care and protection of the supplied tree.