Davey Tree : Vegetation Management : San Diego Gas & Electric: Tree and Pole Pre-Inspection


San Diego Gas & Electric: Tree and Pole Pre-Inspection

Davey Resource Group (DRG) has provided tree and pole brush pre-inspection services to San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) since 1993. These two services play a critical role in the success of the utility�s vegetation management program, which must meet California clearance requirements. To accomplish this, DRG�s utility foresters inspect almost half a million trees each year along distribution and transmission lines throughout SDG&E�s 4,100 square-mile service territory.

Pre-inspection identifies only the vegetation that requires pruning or removal during the work cycle. We also inventory other trees that could potentially impact SDG&E�s facilities. Inspection data is recorded using a geographic information system- (GIS) based vegetation management program on tablet PCs. Inspection results are uploaded remotely into the system at the end of each day, which allows for an up-to-date inventory database.

SDG&E uses the information to create work packages for its line clearance contractors. The utility also uses the database to conduct quality assurance inspections, project future workload requirements, forecast resource needs, and develop long-term management strategies.

DRG�s team also provides technical and management support to SDG&E�s area foresters and corrective maintenance program operations. We also work on special projects and communicate the program�s objectives to SDG&E�s customers. DRG maintains a local project office and an area manager to oversee the daily operations. This service includes providing employee training and development and reviewing and auditing work quality.

DRG is committed to innovation and works with SDG&E to identify and develop process improvements that increase program efficiency. This includes bundled inspections for line clearance and pole brush clearing and the development of inspection teams to increase in-field supervision.

For more information, contact Jack McCabe at (805) 438-1502, or call (800) 966-2021.