May 27, 2009 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • Page 11
Area
Thinking of planting a tree this spring? PSE&G says it is important to plant the right tree in the right place. Trees that come into contact with electric lines and utility poles on roads and local streets are leading causes of electric outages. Some simple planning can help avoid the risk of downed lines and power outages that occur when trees and utility wires compete. PSE&G offers the following tips for safely planting and pruning trees so they do not interfere with utility services: Plant strategically, taking tree height into consideration. Trees that grow into power lines can cause fires and power outages. Taller trees should be planted back from utility poles on streets. Trees that can come into contact with utility lines should reach no more than 25 feet high at maturity. Some tree species suitable for planting beneath power lines include redbud, dogwood, crabapple, eastern rosebud, star magnolia and the smooth sumac. Oaks and other tall growing trees should be placed away from power lines. Regularly inspect trees for damage. Examine trees for branches damaged by storms and evidence of disease or insect manifestation. Remove branches that are
PSE&G offers tips on how to plant trees
dying or dead. Do not trim within 10 feet of power lines. Hire a professional to trim trees and ensure adequate clearance. Keeping limbs and branches away from power lines will help keep the lights on in your community. For branches you cannot reach, enlist the help of a professional tree care company. Stay clear of fallen electrical wires. If a fallen tree or limb has brought down a wire, electricity can travel through the ground. Stay away from the wire, call 911, and call PSE&G at 1-800-436-7734 to request assistance. Call before you dig: It’s the law. When planting a tree, be sure to call 211 for a free mark out so underground utilities can be identified and are not damaged during excavation. Call at least four days before digging. A suggested list of low growing trees suitable for planting near distribution lines is available on PSE&G’s website. Visit www.pseg.com, select safety and then vegetation management. Public Service Electric and Gas Company is New Jersey’s oldest and largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state’s population.
Exhibiting brains & brawn
In Ridgewood, George Washington Middle School Librarian Ann Brown recently arranged for a very special author event. Former NFL football player and New York Times Bestselling author Tim Green visited sixth and seventh graders at GW to discuss his books and his career as a professional football player, sports commentator, lawyer, and writer. Green began his writing career at Syracuse University where he was an NCAA Top Six Scholar, Phi Beta Kappa, and co-valedictorian of his class. He was selected in the first round of the NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons where he was a star defensive end for eight years. After his NFL career, Green began working as a sports commentator and received his law degree with honors at Syracuse University. He has written several bestselling books for children and adults. At right: Green signs his rookie card for Yoo Joon Kim. Above: Green visits with some sixth and seventh graders.
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