PURPOSE:

The purpose of the Russellville EPB Tree Trimming Policy is to support preventative maintenance efforts by

establishing vegetation management practices that reduce risk to utility infrastructure and improve service

reliability. This policy will be applied without regard of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, or marital

status.

TRIMMING PRACTICE:

Where a tree is located beside a primary line, the EPB will trim only that portion of the tree that creates the

potential for interruption of service to the customers of the EPB. This practice is commonly referred to as

"side trimming". The trim will be made to a minimum of ten (10) feet from the primary line or the main trunk

of the tree, whichever is closer to the line. Where the tree is located directly below the primary line, the EPB

will trim only the portion of the tree that creates the potential for interruption of service. This trimming is

normally referred to as "V trimming". The trim will be made as low as possible and at a width that will

provide ten-foot (10) clearance on either side of the primary line. If the tree owner wishes to have the entire

tree trimmed, referred to as "rounded over", it will be the owner’s responsibility either prior to or after the

EPB’s trimming has occurred.

TREE REMOVAL PRACTICE:

Where a tree is located under or near a primary line (problem tree) and the tree owner agrees in writing, the

EPB will have the tree removed, provided the owner agrees NOT to have or allow another tree to be planted

under or near the line that will grow to a height that will create the possibility of having to trim the new tree in

the future. This does not prevent the owner from setting low growing trees to replace the tree removed.

To encourage the removal of problem trees the EPB agrees to provide replacement trees under its Trade a

Tree Program. If the owner prefers, the EPB will have the stump of the removed tree "ground" and NOT

replace the tree.

SECONDARY & SERVICE DROPS:

Secondary

Insulated wire from the transformer to a service pole that serves more than one location is known as a

"secondary line". Where the secondary line is located over public right-of-way, the EPB will apply the same

trimming and removal practices as to that of primary lines. Where secondary lines are located over private

property, EPB management will coordinate with the property owner as to the best solution to address the

problem trees.

Service Drops

Wires from the transformer, or a service pole, to the customer’s point of attachment is known as a service

drop. Service drops run over private property and problem trees located on that property would be the

total responsibility of the property owner. If the property owner wishes to trim or remove a problem tree,

EPB personnel will take down the service drop until work is completed.

This policy is intended to be used as a guide uniform to all customers of the EPB. However, the EPB reserves

the right to make allowances for extenuating circumstances which have been reviewed and determined by

management, and to take action that will be in the best interest of the EPB and its customers.

Approved by the Board: 01/08/2026