Central Maine Power will continue performing tree-trimming work in about nearly 30 communities in Central and Midcoast Maine during the coming weeks. The work along utility lines is part of CMP’s $20 million annual vegetation management program to maintain the reliability of its transmission and distribution lines.

“We maintain nearly 24,000 miles of roadside distribution lines on a five-year cycle of vegetation clearing, inspection and repair,” said CMP spokesperson Gail Rice. “Trees contacting lines is the most frequent cause of blinking clocks and power outages, so customers should see better reliability as the crews trim along the roadsides in their towns.”

CMP’s arborists and contractors are working in Damariscotta, Jefferson, Newcastle, Nobleboro, West Bath, Westport, Whitefield, Augusta, Belfast, Belmont, Brooks, Farmingdale, Hallowell, Jackson, , Knox, Monroe, Morrill, Northport, Readfield, Searsmont, Sidney, Somerville Plantation, Swanville, Topsham, Wayne, Waldo, Washington, Windsor, Winterport and Winthrop.

CMP urges motorists to use caution when they encounter tree crews working alongside Maine roads.

“These crews play a key role in helping CMP provide the safe, reliable service that our customers depend on,” said Rice. “The work can be difficult, so we urge motorists who pass these crews to proceed slowly and at a safe distance.”

CMP contracts with professional arborists who are required to follow practices established by the International Society of Arboriculture. These include consideration for the health, shape, strength, growth rate, and appearance of trees before and after pruning. CMP notifies customers about its vegetation management activities every year with inserts in its bills. Customers can sign up to receive a notice when tree trimming is happening in their area. For more information, call CMP Customer Service at 1-800-750-4000.

Additional information about CMP’s tree care program, along with tips for tree planting and care can be found on CMP’s website at http://www.cmpco.com — click on “Usage and Safety,” then “Tree Care.”