Rush on experts for tree lopping

HOMEOWNERS warned by TasNetworks against clearing vegetation from powerlines have only two approved arborists in the South to choose from.

This week TasNetworks warned people to hire a professional rather than trim trees growing too close to powerlines themselves, saying home handymen caused five trees to fall onto electricity infrastructure in the past few weeks.

On its website, TasNetworks steers customers to five approved tree clearers – two in the South, two in the North and one in the North-West.

The Mercury has been told residents who have received clearance notices are struggling to get busy professionals to do the work in the five-week time frame stipulated.

Leader of safety and wellbeing Ed Chetcuti said it was a busy time as letters were sent out to landowners in the lead up to summer and bushfire season.

“We’ve issued a high number of letters in recent months, and we’re aware it’s putting extra demand on contractors,” he said. “We’re working to assess the urgency and risk factor of individual cases, so we can prioritise some and possibly extend the time frame for others.

“Above all – do not attempt to clear trees and vegetation close to powerlines yourself. It’s simply too big a risk.”

One of TasNetworks’ preferred contractors said he was getting lots of work but it was manageable at this stage.

Mr Chetcuti said the risk of being electrocuted, crushed or struck was very high and that trees and vegetation landing on powerlines could start a fire and disrupt supply.

TasNetworks routinely issues vegetation notices asking residents to have trees or branches on their property cleared, if they’re within one metre of powerlines.

The notices request a time frame of within five weeks for removal and customers are advised to engage one of TasNetworks’ authorised contractors for the work.

Customers with vegetation notices can call TasNetworks on 1300 137 008. There’s more information at https:// www.tasnetworks.com.au/safety/Vegetation-maintenance/