Taking proactive measures to prevent power outages
by General Manager Steve Stroshane and Operations Manager Jason Evenson
Construction of Polk-Burnett's electric distribution system began in 1938, when local farmers established the cooperative to bring electricity to rural farms and families. Today, we operate and maintain more than 3,500 miles of power line across 2,000 square miles, with 1,575 miles overhead and 1,940 miles underground. Our annual Work Plan directs investment in the 
construction and maintenance of our longstanding system to ensure we meet your power needs safely and reliably.
This month, we'd like to highlight three proactive maintenance programs that identify and resolve issues before they cause outages or safety concerns:
1. Pole testing
Power poles are inspected on a 10-year rotation to ensure they are strong enough to carry the attached equipment and electrical load. Contractors perform a visual inspection and test each pole for damage, with 10% of poles tested annually. With approximately 35,000 poles on the system, about 3,500 poles are tested each year. Poles that do not meet standards are replaced to ensure reliable electricity for co-op members. The five-year average rejection rate is 1.5%. In 2024, we identified 26 poles that required replacement.
2. Underground transformer inspection
Underground equipment is inspected on a seven-year rotation to verify the structural integrity of the steel or fiberglass enclosure, and make sure internal components are functioning properly and free of animal damage (snakes, rodents and ants often inhabit green transformer boxes). Contractors also ensure equipment is safely locked and secured. In 2024, we tested more than 2,000 underground transformers and repaired 47.
3. Danger tree scouting and removal
In addition to regular right-of-way clearing, we are always scouting the system for dead, dying and leaning danger trees. When found, danger trees are marked and trimmed or removed to eliminate threat to power lines. This reduces outages and blinks caused by fallen branches and trees during severe weather. In 2024, we patrolled 350 miles of line and removed 922 danger trees. If you spot danger trees on or near power lines, please contact us at 800-421-0283, ext. 389. Thank you!
For 87 years, Polk-Burnett's electric grid has served our community thanks to responsible planning, investment and proactive maintenance. You can trust that this resilient system will continue to serve for future generations.
Bonus: Proactive measure for homeowners: Move your service line underground, out of harms way
