Eversource To Use Low-Flying Helicopters For Work In Southeastern CT

NEW LONDON COUNTY, CT — Eversource will be using low-flying helicopters to trim tree limbs from the sides of power line corridors in Southeastern Connecticut in the coming weeks.

The work will take place in Groton, Ledyard, Stonington, and North Stonington from Friday until March 14.

All flights will take place between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Eversource said in a statement that the work is "part of its ongoing efforts to ensure safe, reliable service for customers."

The overhead trimming work will be conducted using rotating blades and a helicopter.

"This helps to significantly reduce the amount of time it takes climbing crews to conduct the work manually, lowers the risk of injury to tree crews, and protects the natural habitat of many native plants and wildlife found in the right of way," Eversource said in a statement.

The utility described transmission lines as the superhighway of the power grid.

"When a tree grows too close or falls onto these critical portions of the electric system, it can interrupt service for thousands of customers across multiple communities," Eversource said in a statement. "The clearance area around transmission lines provides the necessary protection, which is why it’s essential to keep this space free of incompatible vegetation to prevent power outages or potential public safety issues."