Contracted Services

ArborMetrics’ core business is providing contract personnel to support transmission and distribution (T&D) vegetation management programs for electric utilities. Personnel are also contracted to serve gas companies, water management districts, and other local, state, and federal agencies.

Program Management

ArborMetrics has a network of resources available to provide a range of program management options including: turn-key operations, customer communications services, quality control, and other needs related to integrated vegetation management.

Work Planning (job titles include pre-planners, inspectors, unit estimators and
utility arborists/foresters)

Pre-inspection of T&D rights-of-way is a common practice used by electric utilities and gas companies. The core responsibility of a knowledgeable work planner is to identify line clearance work and any issues related to access. Regardless of the data collection technique, the key to a successful work planning program is achieving production without compromising the quality of data captured in the field. ArborMetrics can help you develop and implement work planning processes that are the most efficient and effective for your system.

Work planners are also used in right-of-way operations to identify mowing areas, mechanical trimming locations spray areas, TGR opportunities and danger trees. This work is typically collected electronically and dispatched to contractors with summary tables and associated maps.

Of course, a vital consideration for any project is determining the appropriate level of knowledge or experience a work planner should have for the task at hand. A balance of formal education and practical experience is the primary consideration when ArborMetrics selects the right personnel for the job.

Notification

Many electric utilities aim to provide extraordinary customer service by notifying members or their customers of scheduled pruning or other tree work. Programs range from simple door hangers to face-to-face contact with the landowner in order to gain permission to access property. ArborMetrics employs qualified personnel trained in customer relations and conflict resolution. Training focuses on six key points:

Knowledge - Know the facts about the utility’s vegetation management program.
Experience - Personal experience puts things in perspective.
Communication - Explain how, why and where the work will be done. Be respectful.
Integrity - Be honest and straightforward. The credibility of the utility is at stake.
Appearance - Look professional. Be worthy of the customer’s confidence.
Attitude - None of the above matters without a positive attitude!

Special Projects

ArborMetrics personnel are skilled to handle jobs of all sizes and timeframes. Our employees can assist utilities with relatively short-term projects such as:

A typical clinometer

· Danger tree surveys along transmission rights-of-way utilizing clinometers and other evaluation criteria.
· Planning for tree removal programs on distribution rights-of-ways by identifying, assessing, mapping, and reporting on strategic tree removals to improve system reliability.
· Vegetation inventories, done prior to deploying contractors, can deliver information related to vegetation type, density, GPS location, access routes and a detailed prescription to mitigate incompatible vegetation.

Administration

Administrative support is critical for any organization. ArborMetrics employs existing administration resources to assist with data input, timesheets, billing, and general support to your right-of-way programs.