MESSAGE FROM OPERATIONS: Spring projects update

KEM Electric Cooperative crews begin to prepare for summer construction projects across the service area, we'd like to share about the projects keeping our line crews busy. The mild weather has helped line crews advance various projects, such as pole changeouts and maintenance. 

Infrastructure maintenance 

KEM Electric crews have performed line patrol on overhead and underground power lines. Line patrol is an inspection of cooperative infrastructure across the service area which allows the cooperative to identify and make repairs before further issues arise. 

During line patrol, crews note if something needs maintenance or immediate assistance and make the necessary repairs. Line crews and contractors completed power pole changeouts throughout the service area. These power poles were identified to be replaced during line patrol or through pole testing, which was conducted late last year. Crews and contractors also installed anchors on power poles in slough areas to help with the stability and longevity of the poles in these wet areas. 

Additionally, crews retired aged power lines due to service retirements at the member’s request or because the line was no longer needed. Retiring idle line reduces maintenance, exposure for outages and overall costs. 

Outage mitigation

In steps to reduce outages, KEM Electric crews and contractors perform tree trimming throughout the year. Through line inspection or by member notification, the cooperative has a list of areas where vegetation needs attention. 

Trimming trees can assist in reducing blinks and outages during windy days and is part of KEM Electric’s wildfire mitigation plan. In late 2025, contractors completed tree trimming across our service area. The operations department has been diligently planning and preparing for upcoming projects this summer. Materials have been ordered, and easements and permits are being obtained. 

As we continue to work across the service area, we encourage you to report any issues or safety concerns you may see on KEM Electric’s infrastructure by calling the office at 701-254-4666.