This time of year, farms across our District harvest hay and grain, leaving fields of dry grasses and straw behind. While a normal part of the season, these materials can pose a risk to the electrical system.
Lightweight straw can be picked up by the wind and carried onto power lines. When it becomes wet from rain or even morning dew, it can conduct electricity—causing lines to spark and potentially start a fire.
To help prevent this, EPUD servicemen regularly patrol rural areas, watching for and removing windblown straw before it becomes a hazard. This proactive work helps reduce outages, prevent fires, and protect both utility equipment and customer property.