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Thompson Tree Services specialises in all aspects of utility arboriculture. We have teams that are specially trained to carry out tree work on the electricity networks and we are an approved contractor.

 

What is utility tree management?

 

Whenever trees impact on the human environment they require some form of management. In many parts of the country one of the most dangerous impacts is where trees come into contact with the overhead power lines.

Trees in contact with power lines are a safety hazard, with the potential for causing injury or even death by electrocution if someone touches a tree made "live" by a power line. Trees in windy or stormy conditions can cause power cuts. The customers' power supply may be disrupted when trees or branches break, damaging poles, power lines or other structures. 

If you have any trees near to power lines on your land, here are some of the types of cut that our experienced teams can perform to make it safe for you whilst removing the need to dismantle the tree completely.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underpinning

This is the removal of all branches on one side of the tree which grow beneath the lines or are close to the lines. Some branches above the power lines may be left to partially overhang the line if there is no danger of contact when influenced by strong winds or the weight of snow and ice. Generally, all overhanging branches would be removed using approved methods to minimise the risk of dangerous branches which may fall and come into contact with the lines.

 

Side pruning

This operation involves the removal of all branches on one side of the tree to their junctions with the main stem. Often this process is needed when the stem of the tree is very close to the line, but the tree can't be removed.  

 

Pollarding

Pollarding may only be carried out on young trees for which this would be an acceptable form of management, or to previously pollarded trees. Trees may be pruned to achieve a desired branch framework. As a result of this pruning young shoots will sprout and the tree shall be managed on an agreed pruning cycle by removing each individual sprout to its point of origin.  

 

Coppicing

This operation is only suitable for trees which will produce shoots from stumps following felling. Wherer it is appropriate, coppicing may be used as a means of managing trees on an agreed cycle. This would be employed in Utility Arb to trees such as Willow and Hazel and Ash. 

 

Hedge cutting

Hedges will be trimmed to remove growth which is very close to the lines giving consideration to the species involved. Where possible, we will use contractors to flail hedges (within correct procedures and safety guidlines) as this is not only time and cost effective, it is generally safer.

 

Crown reduction

This operation shall consist of a reduction in the height and spread of the crown of a tree whilst retaining a shape appropriate to the species. Crown reduction will usually only be appropriate for trees growing beneath the overhead line.

 

Directional pruning

Directional pruning is an alternative to topping that leaves trees healthier and ultimately reduces future line clearing costs. In directional pruning, only branches that head toward the utility lines (or other obstructions such as Transformers/Switches etc) are pruned. Those that are growing down or out away from the wires are left alone to continue their growth. No stubs are left since branches are always pruned at the point where they reach another branch or at a "crotch". Such pruning cuts heal well and minimize sprouting and decay when properly made.