MLEC Shares 2026 Vegetation Management Schedule

Contracted crews improving reliability with trimming and spraying

(April 20, 2026 – Centerville, TN) – Meriwether Lewis’ annual vegetation management plan is underway for 2026 to support reliable service, public safety, and care for the environment across its five-county service area.

Crews are already working in Hickman County and will continue for most of 2026. They are also expected to finish in Humphreys County in mid-May before moving to Perry County, where they will work for the remainder of 2026. Additional targeted “hot spot” areas across the system may also be addressed as needed.

Spraying is scheduled for this summer throughout Houston, Humphreys and Perry counties. In Hickman County, a limited number of members in the Pleasantville, Only and Bucksnort communities served by the Linden and Lobelville substations will also be included.

For property owners who prefer to personally maintain the right-of-way, alternative options are available in place of spraying. These arrangements allow members to manage their property according to established vegetation management standards. Those interested should contact their local MLEC office as soon as possible. Required paperwork must be submitted by May 15, 2026.

“Winter Storm Fern showed the true importance of keeping vegetation managed. We work hard to balance the natural beauty of our communities with our responsibility to provide safe, reliable broadband and electricity,” said President and CEO Keith Carnahan. “This proactive program plays a critical role in reducing outages and keeping lines clear of trees and other vegetation.”

MLEC uses a variety of environmentally responsible methods to maintain proper clearance around power lines. Contract crews maintain a 20-foot clearance on all sides of the line through trimming, treating, selective spraying and removal when necessary.

As a member of the Tennessee Environmental Council, MLEC follows industry best practices that support long-term tree health and environmental sustainability, including standards from the International Society of Arboriculture and the Arbor Day Foundation.

Licensed contractors registered with the EPA carefully evaluate each treatment area, applying solutions that encourage a gradual transition of the right-of-way into native grasses and flowering plants. These efforts not only support reliable electrical service but also enhance the land for environmental and community benefit.

###