Manager’s Message – August 2024

Wildfire Mitigation Efforts

Summer is in full swing, bringing lazy days at the lake, outdoor activities, backyard barbecues, and, unfortunately, wildfires.

In recent years, wildfires have emerged as a growing public safety concern throughout the West. Although wildfires have many causes—from lightning to unattended campfire sparks—electric cooperatives recognize they have an important role to play in preventing wildfires.

Due to the extreme fire danger in our region, Bonneville Power Administration—our generation and transmission provider—has changed how it operates during times of red flag weather warnings. When specific weather conditions exist, such as high winds, high temperatures, and low humidity, BPA may choose to temporarily shut off power to reduce the chance of the power lines starting fires.

If BPA does enact a Public Safety Power Shutoff in our area, NLI members may be affected. If possible, members will be notified, and we will do everything we can to restore power as quickly as possible.

With our dry conditions, keeping vegetation away from the power lines continues to be a top priority for Northern Lights. We are constantly trimming trees and removing vegetation in our utility’s easements to remove fuel for fires and also keep trees and limbs from coming into contact with our lines to reduce fire risk.

NLI continues to work closely with BPA to monitor weather conditions and ensure we are taking precautions to avoid a wildfire while maintaining our commitment to providing reliable electricity.

Enjoy the August weather and be safe. When we work together, we can keep the lights on and reduce our fire danger.

Sincerely,
Annie Terracciano
General Manager