The USDA’s Forest Service (USFS) seeks public input regarding two proposed directives that would address safety and reliability for powerline operations on national forests and grasslands.
The proposed changes would provide consistent direction for USFS staff when coordinating with utilities in managing vegetation, including removing dead and dying trees that pose a fire risk to powerline structures. These policy initiatives include new procedures for streamlining reviews and approvals for vegetation management and maintenance for powerlines.
“The proposed directives would not only help us improve the reliability of America’s electrical grid but also would help reduce wildfire risk in powerline corridors and the cost of delivering electricity to millions of homes,” said USFS Deputy Chief Chris French.
The 30-day public comment period for the proposed directives ends on Jan. 11, 2021. Information can found at fs.usda.gov/about-agency/regulations-policy.
