Mon Power Continues Vegetation Management Work to Enhance System Reliability

FirstEnergy News Release:

Mon Power Continues Vegetation Management Work to Enhance System Reliability

FAIRMONT, W.Va., June 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mon Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE:FE), continues to conduct vegetation management work across its 34-county service area, primarily in north-central West Virginia, as part of its ongoing efforts to help enhance system reliability.  To date, Mon Power tree contractors have trimmed more than 1,535 circuit miles of electric lines as part of its approximately $34 million vegetation management spend for 2013, with an additional 2,400 miles expected to be completed by year end. During the summer months, Mon Power will be conducting vegetation management in rural areas served by each of its line shop locations, including Clarksburg, Weston-Buckhannon,Elkins, Franklin, Marlinton, Fairmont, Morgantown, Kingwood, Weirton, Parkersburg,Harrisville, Sistersville, Gassaway, Spencer, Webster Springs, Glenville, Fairlea, andHinton. The tree trimming and vegetation management work is done to ensure proper clearances around electric circuits and equipment and help reduce tree-related outages, particularly during severe weather.  Vegetation is inspected and trees are pruned in a manner that preserves the health of the tree, while also maintaining safe and reliable electric service for customers.  In some cases, trees that present a danger or are diseased may also be removed. As part of its notification process, Mon Power works with municipalities to inform officials of vegetation management schedules.  In addition, landowners where vegetation work is to be performed are notified prior to the start of work. All vegetation management work is conducted to national standards by Mon Power'scertified forestry contractors, including Asplundh Tree Experts and Jaflo, Inc. For the fifteenth consecutive year, FirstEnergy, on behalf of its 10 utility companies, includingMon Power, recently was recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the National Arbor DayFoundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters.  The award recognizes utility companies that promote the dual goals of dependable utility service and abundant, healthy trees along America's streets and highways.  Award-winning companies demonstrate excellence in tree care, training and public education. Mon Power serves about 385,000 customers in 34 West Virginia counties.  Follow Mon Power on Twitter @MonPowerWV.