AUGUSTA

Central Maine Power has announced it will continue performing tree-trimming work in about nearly 30 communities in central and Mid-coast Maine in the coming weeks. The work along utility lines is part of CMP’s $20 million annual vegetation management program to maintain the reliability of its transmission and distribution lines.

CMP’s arborists and contractors are working in Topsham, West Bath and Westport Island, among other communities.

“We maintain nearly 24,000 miles of roadside distribution lines on a five-year cycle of vegetation clearing, inspection, and repair,” said CMP Spokesperson Gail Rice in a news release. “Trees contacting lines is the most frequent cause of blinking clocks and power outages, so customers should see better reliability as the crews trim along the roadsides in their towns.”

CMP urges motorists to use caution when they encounter tree crews working alongside Maine roads.

“These crews play a key role in helping CMP provide the safe, reliable service that our customers depend on,” said Rice. “The work can be difficult, so we urge motorists who pass these crews to proceed slowly and at a safe distance.”

CMP contracts with professional arborists who are required to follow practices established by the International Society of Arboriculture. These include consideration for the health, shape, strength, growth rate, and appearance of trees before and after pruning.

For more information, call CMP Customer Service at 1-800-750-4000.

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