3rd Annual Vegetation Management Conference · PDF fileThe Vegetation Management ... 3:55 Complete Herbicide Tracking Solution with ... 2015 CEATI Vegetation Management conference

Tel: +1.514.866.5377 Fax: +1.514.904.5038 [email protected] www.ceati.com

Conference Highlights

The Vegetation Management Program (VM) focuses on issues of interest to staff at electrical utilities who are managing the vegetation programs. The emphasis of the group is on program development and management, such as justifying budgets, work planning, addressing regulatory issues, managing contractors and setting standards and guidelines for the work.

The group provides vegetation managers with a cost-effective vehicle for sharing experiences and addressing issues pertinent to their day-to-day operations, maintenance and planning. The primary benefit to program participation lies in the ability to tap into the wealth of experience and knowledge of other electrical utility participants so members can learn from the experiences and successes of others.

For more information, visit www.ceati.com/VM2016

Who Should Attend?

VM Program at a GlanceData Collection and Mapping

• LiDAR effectiveness and use• Use of drones to collect data• Patrols and surveys• New technologies

New Technologies and

Program Management

• Fire risk management• Vegetation management program

optimization• Communicating with the public• New equipment and techniques

Herbicide Application Technology

• Thinvert application of herbicides• Digital record keeping for herbicide use• Responsible use of herbicides

Field Demonstration

• Demonstration of drones flying over aright-of-way

• Demonstration of thinvert herbicideapplication

• Demonstration of herbicide use trackingwith electronic forms

Vegetation ManagementPersonnel from Electric Utilities

Professional Arborists &Contractors

Right-of-Way VegetationManagers

Manufacturers & EquipmentVendors

Service Providers

3rd Annual Vegetation Management Conference

Seattle CityLight

December 6 - 7, 2016 - Scottsdale, AZ

7:00 – 8:00 Registration & Breakfast - Exhibition Hall

8:00 - 8:05 Welcome Address Gwen Shrimpton, CEATI Intl.

Session 1: Data Collection & Mapping

8:05 – 8:40 Advancements in Network Mapping, Scott Nowicki, Species Assessment, and Risk Tree Modeling Quantum Spatial &for Utility Vegetation Management Eric Woodyard, PG&E

8:40 – 9:15 5 Reasons Drones will Change the Way You Think About Vegetation Management

Tero Heinonen, Sharper Shape &Matt Dunlevy, SkySkopes

9:15 – 9:45 Morning Break - Exhibition Hall

9:45 – 10:20 James S. Downie, ECI

Leading the Way with Long-Range Unmanned A Serial yst (Uems AS)

Chris Vallier, FLoT Systems

10:20 – 10:55 The New Paradigm-Distribution LiDAR Hits the Nick Ferguson,Mainstream NM Group

Randal Rhoads,Harris Corporation

10:55 – 11:20 Did someone order Pho?? David Petterson, EagleView Pictometry

11:20 – 11:40 Question & Answer Period All Participants

11:40 - 12.20 Lunch - Exhibition Hall

Session 2: Field Demonstration * Buses depart from the hotel at 12:30

1:00 – 5:00 Several industry leading UAS/UAV suppliers will conduct a drone demonstration over a right-of-way, companies include:

• Quantum Spatial & 5D Robotics• Sharper Shape/ SkySkopes• NM Group & Phoenix Air

ECI & FLot Systems will also be on-site with a drone. There will be a field demonstration of APS thinvert application by Southwest Ground Control and herbicide tracking with GIS data and electronic forms. Jason Myers from CWC-Chemical will demonstrate the Spraylogger system and David Enns from WIRE Services (Manitoba Hydro International) will demonstrate Smart Glasses, the latest in wearable technology for Vegetation Management.

6:00 - 7:30 Reception - Exhibition Hall Agenda subject to change without notice

DAY 1 • December 6, 2016


10:20 – 10:55 The New Paradigm-Distribution LiDAR Hits the Nick Ferguson,Mainstream NM Group

Randal Rhoads,Harris Corporation

DAY 2 • December 7, 2016


Continuation of Session 1 7:00 – 8:00 Breakfast - Exhibition Hall

8:00 - 8:30 The Age of the Unmanned Aerial System - Vegetation Patrol and Survey for FAC-003-3(4) Compliance in a Midwest Context

Jason Grossman, Empire Electric & Nick Ferguson, NM Group

8:30 - 9:00 Integration of LiDAR From a Forester's Perspective John Gwozdz, NYPA


Session 3: New Technologies & Program Management

9:10 – 9:15 Session Introduction Gwen Shrimpton,CEATI Intl.

9:15 – 9:50 UVM Decision-Making Transformed Through Doug Jones,Optimization Modeling Remsoft

10:20 – 10:50 Remote Sensing & Advanced GIS Analysis

10:50– 11:20 Fire Risk Assessment for APS ROW Wade Ward, APS

11:20– 11:50 The Latest and Greatest in Gadgets for Utility Seth Reid,Vegetation Managers CN Utility Consulting

11:50 - 12:50 Lunch - Exhibition Hall

12:50 – 1:20 Communications in the Modern World Bryan Durr, ACRT

1:20 – 1:50 Vegetation Management: An Annual Assessment Approach

1:50 – 2:05 Question & Answer Period

Session 4: Herbicide Application Technology

2:05 – 2:10 Session Introduction

2:10 – 2:45 Use of Low Volume Herbicide Application in Ron Romero, South Integrated Vegetation Management on Transmission West Ground ControlRights of Way in Remote Areas

2:45 – 3:15 Afternoon Break - Exhibition Hall

3:15 – 3:55 Complete Herbicide Tracking Solution with GIS Jason Myers,Data & Electronic Forms CWC Chemical Inc.

3:55 – 4:30 Benefits of Digital Record Keeping for Herbicide Applications

Joe Lentz,Asplundh Tree Expert


4:50 – 5:00 Concluding Remarks Gwen Shrimpton, CEATI Intl.

5:00 - Day 2 Conference Adjournment Agenda subject to change without notice

1:50 – 2:05 Question & Answer Period

Pat Carberry, Fugro Roames

All Participants

Gwen Shrimpton, CEA IntlTI .

9:50 – 10:20 Morning Break - Exhibition HallJodie Braskich &Michael Sultan,Davey Resource Grp.

Abstract: Built upon the legacy of multi-year deployments in the use of remote sensing for vegetation management along electric transmission and distribution networks, Quantum Spatial has established the most advanced solution ever off ered for large-scale vegetation mapping and management. The technology employed in the assessment of species can be taken further to assess tree health, and identify the presence of endangered or invasive vegetation species which can be used to build a comprehensive work management tool based on vegetation risk profi les and best management practices such as integrated vegetation management. The result of this accomplishment produces the foundation of a situational intelligence platform by which utilities will know precisely where their facilities are, which tree species surround those facilities, and where to focus their eff ort to mitigate tree-related risk due to encroachment or tree failure. Mapping with high density LiDAR allows for the delineation of vegetation polygons at the sub-meter scale, and with the collection of high resolution hyperspectral imagery, individual trees and ground cover units can be classifi ed by species. The latest refi nements to the methodology have included machine learning classifi cation routines that can now handle massive amounts of data, and the streamlining and minimization of fi eld-based training data collection.

Biography: Scott Nowicki is the principal scientist for research and development of newremote sensing sensors and solutions at Quantum Spatial. He leads a team of engineers, operations and analytics personnel for projects in spectral analysis for habitat modeling, precision agriculture, tree species mapping, greenhouse gas monitoring, infrastructure inspection, vegetation mapping for utilities, and UAS deployment. With extensive experience in spectral instrument development, calibration and operations, Scott is working to blend imagery analysis with LiDAR point cloud and feature analysis, and is designing two new spectral systems to expand QSI’s portfolio in environmental monitoring. Scott received his PhD from Arizona State University, where he worked on projects that ranged from the San Andreas fault to Mars missions.

Biography: Eric Woodyard began his utility vegetation management career working as a consulting utility arborist in 2002. Moving up quickly through the ranks, Eric joined PG&E in 2007 where he expanded his background to include quality assurance, program management, and tree failure risk mitigation through the use of data. In 2014, Eric had the idea to expand PG&E’s remote sensing eff orts to electric distribution where he now fi nds himself as the principle architect for developing Vegetation Management Remote Sensing Program. Eric is a Certifi ed Arborist and Utility Specialist, and earned a B.A. in Biology from Pacifi c Lutheran University and an MBA from UC Davis.



Advancements in Network Mapping, Species Assessment, and Risk Tree Modeling for Utility

Vegetation Management

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5 Reasons Drones will Change The Way you Think About Vegetation Management

Abstract: Traditional visual inspections may have the single largest infl uence on maintenance strategies, plans, and costs across a wide variety of ROW related industries. This presentation will look at the issue of inspection data acquisition and application through the use of drones a.k.a. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and automated analysis of data.

The effi cient maintenance of assets is of great importance to many ROW industries such as power distribution and transmission, transportation, oil and gas. When the maintenance can be planned optimally based on actual need and impact, the asset owners and operators can gain substantial advantages:

• Reduced operating expenses due to more effi cient maintenance• Reduced and/or delayed capital expenses due to prolonged life-cycle of the existing assets before reinvestment• Improved compliance with regulations• Improved customer and general public relations

This presentation focuses on automating the analysis and vegetation management planning for electric transmission and distribution industry. This presentation will, at minimum, address the following important questions:

1. Why are effi cient and accurate inspections important?2. What are the key requirements for cost-eff ective use of drones and automated data analytics?3. How does the drone technology compare to traditional inspection methods?4. How can drones improve compliance with regulatory standards such as FAC-003?5. What types of information can be obtained during drone inspections and how can that information be used to

improve current infrastructure and vegetation management programs?6. What is the current status of large scale commercial drone applications in the utility industry in the USA?7. Case summary

Biography: Sharper Shape is the global leader in UAV based automatic inspection. Tero is an entrepreneurial and experienced start-up executive with a successful track record and experience from international high tech business management, sales and technology management with excellent industry knowledge of several industries, and target-driven hands-on attitude. Tero has co-founded 5 technology companies, where he has served as CEO and/or Chairman. Since 2000 Tero has been focused solely on startups. Earlier Tero worked in business development at Stonesoft Corp and in business management at Tekla Corp. Tero started his career as a software developer in 1986.

Biography: Matt Dunlevy is the President, CEO, and Founder of SkySkopes and has been the CEO and founder of several successful technology startups. Matt studied mechanical engineering and history at UND, has logged hundreds of flights in glider and powered aircraft since his mid-teens, and was in the Air Force Reserve for four years. Matt has a strong passion for UAS and views SkySkopes as an industry leader.



Abstract: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are beginning to transform the electric and gas utility industry. At the 2015 CEATI Vegetation Management conference Environmental Consultants Inc. (ECI) and FLōT Systems described the potential to utilize long-range aircraft capable of, beyond line-of-sight operations and the integration of remote sensing technology and analytics to more safely and effi ciently assess critical infrastructure compared to traditional inspection methods. In addition, actual missions executed for a large investor-owned utility for the inspection of electric transmission and high pressure gas facilities were described.

Recently, ECI and FLōT Systems successfully executed the fi rst Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) UAS mission on electric transmission facilities in the United States near Amarillo, Texas with authorization by the FAA.

ECI and FLōT System will update the attendees on the current status of initiatives undertaken to build the business case for commercial UAS applications within the current FAA regulatory framework.

Biography: Mr. Downie is ECI’s President providing corporate leadership for ECI. With over 30 years in the utility vegetation management industry, his experience includes serving as a Director at a major Midwest utility where he was responsible for electric and gas vegetation management and wood pole maintenance. Mr. Downie has a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Science. He is an ISA Certifi ed Arborist, Utility Specialist and served as president of the Utility Arborist Association from 1996 to 1997.

Biography: Chris Vallier is the founder, President and Chief Executive Offi cer of FLōT Systems. Mr. Vallier oversees the strategic direction of the Colorado based company and is the chief

architect of long-range UAS for the electric utility industry. Utilizing his expertise in processing algorithms, Chris led a team from MIT that developed mapping solutions to identify oil anomalies in the oil and gas sector with airborne sensors. Currently Chris is working with the FAA to roll out beyond line of site pathway consortium in the U.S. for the utility sector. Chris is a member of the Colorado UAS board and Chaff ee County UAS board as well as an AUVSI member. Chris is also a qualifi ed UAS pilot-in-command (PIC), having logged over 2,500 hours of fl ight time on multiple platforms.

Leading the Way with Long-Range Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)

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Abstract: The value of airborne remote sensing for distribution networks has long been understood. It holds the potential to solve the problems of many asset and vegetation management staff – Where are my poles? How many do I have? How are they connected? Are my TELCO attachments documented? Which spans are vegetated? Where should I cut? Can I really trust my GIS? However, the barrier to adoption has always been the cost of application, and many utilities from IOUs through to co-ops have instead engaged in extensive ground based data collection that can take many years with inconsistent results. During recent years, Harris Corporation has commercialized a high-altitude LiDAR system, previously the preserve of military circles, that can collect in excess of 30 points per meter from an altitude of >15,000 ft. This technique enables data to be captured for entire distribution service territories in a matter of days, fundamentally reducing the cost base. NM Group has been working closely with Harris Corporation to capitalize on this new technological breakthrough by utilizing proprietary analytics that extract asset information. This wealth of asset information, including pole locations, connectivity, attachments, vegetation assessment and others features, enables a utility to establish a base map for a system or correct an existing one. The information can also be fed through a high-end 3D viewing system for operational staff to make decisions from the desktop. Once the preserve of the transmission side of the house, LiDAR is ready to hit the distribution mainstream. Organizational dysfunction caused by lack of asset information will be consigned to history, and this paper will reveal how.

Biography: Nick Ferguson is Senior Vice President of Business Development at NM Group (Network Mapping, Inc). Nick has an academic background and interest in the application of innovative spatial technologies to generate value for utility businesses and holds a BSc and MBA from a leading UK University. He has worked for several years alongside electrical transmission and distribution utilities with global exposure to best practice in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, India, Middle East and Africa. Nick has spoken at several T&D industry forums including ASCE, CEATI, UAA and IRWA.

Biography: Randy Rhoads has twenty plus years of demonstrated leadership building and maintaining eff ective, cohesive, high-performance, multi-functional teams in remote and inhospitable environments. Mr. Rhoads took delivery of the fi rst commercial LiDAR sensor

to be utilized by an engineering fi rm in the world – and helped to develop the commercial LiDAR surveying market applying the technology to various markets. Mr. Rhoads has been applying LiDAR and other remote sensing technologies to solve challenges specifi cally within the Electrical Utility industry over the past 15 years. Mr. Rhoads has surveyed more than 150,000 square miles, spanning over 500 projects, in 48 US states, 35 countries, and 5 continents using LiDAR technology and other remotely sensed geospatial sensors. Mr. Rhoads is a Professionally Licensed Engineer. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1992. He served as an offi cer in the United States Air Force from 1993 to 1996. He is an active member of the ASCE and ASPRS. He served as the ASPRS LiDAR Committee Chairman from 2008-2011.

The New Paradigm – Distribution LiDAR Hits the Mainstream

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The Age of the Unmanned Aerial System - Vegetation Patrol and Survey for FAC-003-3(4)

Compliance in a Midwest Context

Abstract: Increasing penetration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) into consumer and industry markets has raised the question of how electric utilities can benefi t from autonomous fl ight. LiDAR-enabled UAVs have the potential to facilitate Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) through perpetual refresh of dimensional information. This enables not only regulatory compliance, but a paradigm shift in UVM operations towards quantitative and data-driven programs that will drive safety and reliability benefi ts. Clear opportunities also exist to generate operational effi ciencies through eff ective contractor procurement and auditing, accurate prescription, digital workfl ows and others. This paper provides a case study for the implementation of the fi rst year of Empire District Electric Company’s program to comply with the annual revisit requirement in FAC-003-3(4) through deployment of UAS. The case study includes a critical review of the technology and a workfl ow that enables perpetual refresh and continued regulatory compliance.

Biography: Nick Ferguson - (Bio on previous page)

Biography: Jason Grossman graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2005 with a degree in Agricultural Science and Natural Resource Management. He majored in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management with an emphasis on Natural Resource Management. He started working in utility forestry in 2006 as a contractor with Environmental Consultants Inc. Jason began his career at Empire in 2008 as the Distribution Coordinator, later advancing to Vegetation Control Coordinator - Transmission in 2013. Jason is a founding member of the City of Joplin Tree Board where he served as chairman from 2009 through 2013.

Did Someone Order Pho??

Abstract: Over the last few years the technology known as Phodar (Photogrammetric Distance and Ranging) has become increasingly available due to the prevalence of software capable of creating rich point clouds from drone and other imagery sources. This ability to produce high density, high quality point clouds at an economical price point is starting to gain interest for those organizations that typically use costly data sources such as lidar. The application for Phodar appears to be common for vegetation and other forestry related applications especially where budgets for ongoing LiDAR and LiDAR derived solutions are becoming a burden. In this presentation we look at the various technologies used to collect data such as drones and fi xed wing aircraft and the resulting data that is produced from both platforms. The software used to process these highly dense data sets is also important and this presentation will look at the pros and cons of producing point cloud models across a variety of applications. Finally we will discuss how the technology directly compares with existing data sources such as lidar by looking at specifi c technical use cases for the classifi cation of vegetation and the determination tree proximity to transmission conductors.

Biography: With a diverse career as a geomatic professional, David (Chalky) Petterson specializes in developing and producing Geospatial solutions for Infrastructure markets. As a Product Manager, he is responsible for bringing to market solutions founded on Pictometry image technology for infrastructure and GIS professionals and their companies. Chalky’s expertise includes over 18 years of working within the Australian, Canadian and US Infrastructure markets which include Electric, Gas, Water and Transportation markets all focused on solving challenges related to asset management. His current position with EagleView Technologies is concentrated on the use of Pictometry aerial oblique, ortho and LiDAR imagery that, when combined, produces leading-edge 3D models that provide data for strong decision making and strategic growth for utility companies.


Biography: John Gwozdz (Ga-vuish) is a Transmission Forester for the New York Power Authority. He has served a variety of vegetation management roles for 15 years in the North Eastern US including responsibility to both electric distribution and transmission. John holds a BS in Forest Resources Management from the State University of New York Collage of Environmental Science and Forestry. In addition to his Utility Arborist, pesticide applicator, Tree Risk Assesment certifi cations, John has a special interest in ensuring the practical application of emergent technologies.

Abstract: Optimization modeling, widely used by the forest industry, is now available to electric utility vegetation managers. This presentation will detail the results from two recent optimization projects. In the fi rst project, Avista Utilities provided lidar data on electric distribution lines from a division in its service territory which was divided into nine vegetation management zones. Optimization modeling was used to set optimum cycle lengths and prioritize the areas for vegetation maintenance. The model was also tasked with reducing the risk of outages while eff ectively utilizing the budget. Included in this case study was a comparison of four diff erent vegetation maintenance cycle lengths; a one-year cycle (just-in-time pruning), a three year cycle, a four year cycle and a fi ve year cycle. In the second case study, NB Power provided vegetation lidar data from their transmission lines which was utilized to optimize ROW treatments across its transmission system and eff ectively manage danger trees. Also included was the optimization of budget allocations for four management areas in the project area.

Biography: Doug Jones oversees the strategic direction and corporate growth at Remsoft, a global leader in land-use planning solutions. By bringing business intelligence to the planning and optimization of land assets, Remsoft unlocks your land value and provides insight into how your assets are being used and could be used.

UVM Decision-Making Transformed Through Optimization Modeling

Integrated Vegetation Management: Integration of LiDAR from a Forester’s Perspective

Abstract: Electric Utilities are expanding the use of remote sensing technologies in conjunction with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect, analyze, review, apply, and share Right-of-Way data both internally as well as externally to vegetation maintenance contractors and consultants. Projected benefi ts from implementing these technologies range from increased grid reliability, increased effi cacies, and facilitating NERC compliance mandates. Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) is an older tool in the toolbox that has projected and held to these same benefi ts. Integrating technologies such as GIS, LiDAR, High Resolution Satellite imagery, tablets, or applications into a vegetation management program may be most eff ective when done so in a manner that complements the proven strategies of the past such as Integrated Pest Management which has become a staple of a successful vegetation management program. A pilot program was initiated utilizing cloud enabled tablets to fi eld review LiDAR driven vegetation data and evaluate the benefi ts and limitations of how these tools can benefi t the greater vegetation management program. It was identifi ed that cyclic fl ying of LiDAR, post treatment, with fi eld review and follow-up was eff ective in proving NERC compliance, reducing residual tree risk, and assist in an adaptive management adjustment to an already robust IVM program.


Abstract: In Arizona over 40% of the population lives in the Urban Wildland Interface. Due to extended drought over the past decade forest and vegetation ecosystems have been stressed from the lack of regular moisture compounded by shorter drier winters and longer warmer summers. Reducing risk to our human and environmental communities is paramount. Wildland fuel mitigation needs to be emphasized to all stakeholders as we work together to address the problem. We cannot make signifi cant strides in reducing catastrophic wildland fi re risk unless all stakeholders participant in creating defensible space. Arizona Public Service (APS) has identifi ed the risk and has taken ownership of its defensible space as defi ned by the Wildland Urban Interface Code.

The approach to mitigating risk at APS is a combination of elements. First is understanding the risk and developing a model to prioritize resources. Next is to educate and inform the communities we serve that mitigation is the key to prevention. Third, APS has implemented a proactive program (DSAP) to create defensible space around poles which is in compliance with the Urban Wildland Interface Code. Lastly, APS utilizes Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) practices to promote healthy, manageable and sustainable ecosystems within the ROW. APS also supports fi re operations that include prescribed fi re treatments around the ROW to protect infrastructure and reintroduce fi re into the ecosystem that prevent catastrophic events. APS has a healthy respect for the land and resources and a management system founded upon sound IVM principle that supports diverse ecosystems across the Great State of Arizona.

Abstract: Using modern technology and data analysis to promote both environmental stewardship and grid reliability, utilities and the communities they serve can partner to achieve broader community forestry objectives. DRG will provide examples of using remote sensing and advanced GIS analysis, and other urban forest resource assessment tools to enhance right of way maintenance activities and community relations eff orts. Key measures related to land cover types, vegetation density, and tree removal and replacement programs can help guide more effi cient and sustainable vegetation management programs.

Biography: Michael Sultan is a project developer for Davey Resource Group, working with utilities and communities throughout the western United States. In his current position, he has helped develop and bring awareness to projects

in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana.Mr. Sultan holds a bachelor of science degree in Forest Science from Texas A&M University. He is a Certifi ed Arborist, with both Utility Specialist and Municipal Specialist designations, through the International Society of Arboriculture (TX-1292AUM). He is a former adviser to the Texas Statewide Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Committee, a 2008 graduate of the Municipal Forestry Institute, and past president to the International Society of Arboriculture Texas Chapter (ISAT). He is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) - including the Texas, Midwestern, and Rocky Mountain chapters, the Society of Municipal Arborists (SMA), and the Utility Arborist Association (UAA). Mr. Sultan currently serves on the UAA Summit Committee, as well as on the Board of Directors for RETREET, the Texas Urban Forestry

Council, and ISAT as the Council of Representatives (CoR) Liaison and member of the CoR Executive Committee.

Biography: Jodie Braskich is the Client Experience Manager for vegetation management services in the Midwest United States for the Davey Resource Group. Jodie has over 13 years of experience working with large transmission utilities across the Midwest. She brings substantial knowledge of FAC-003 compliance and regulations along with skills in data analysis and budgetary management. Jodie is a proud member of the ISA and the UAA and a Certifi ed Arborist (MI-3948A) She received her Bachelors of Science in Business Management with an emphasis on Community Development from Central Michigan University.

Fire Risk Assessment for APS ROW


Remote Sensing and Advanced GIS Analysis

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Biography: With a Degree in Fire Science, Wade has spent the last 15 years in Fuels Management and Fire Suppression. His work experience includes Wildland Urban Interface hazard vegetation assessments, fuels management hand crews, hotshot experience, as well as a Structure Firefi ghter/Engineer. Wade is also a qualifi ed Public Information Offi cer for all Hazard Incident Management.

Wade currently works for the Arizona Public Service Forestry Division, where he oversees a comprehensive fi re mitigation plan for APS transmission and distribution, which includes the DSAP Program, (Defensible Space Around Poles). The goal of the DSAP is to mitigate the fi re hazard of vegetation in the ROW. In addition Wade works with APS incident command as a liaison on wildfi re incidents to ensure public and fi rst responder safety and assist with communications during restoration.

Abstract: Using Tablets and Mobile Phones with downloadable applications is quicker, cheaper, and more user-friendly than traditional fi eld hardware and software. Many of the new and emerging technologies harness consumer grade hardware to optimize the mobile workforce. Traditional data collection with local storage on devices or paired with desktop computers is being replaced by cloud or web-based systems. Using IOS/Android devices with protective cases (Otterbox/Lifeproof) and tablet applications software (Collector/Fulcrum/PlannerVM/etc.) can extend your time in the fi eld and allow you to collect data more effi ciently and eff ectively. Externally-mounted devices (SPIKE/Structure Sensor) can be mounted to consumer devices to provide additional measuring capabilities. Data can later be analyzed or manipulated in traditional software (Excel, Access, ArcGIS, Google Earth) from a desktop or laptop computer. This presentation will briefl y cover some of the hardware and software that is currently being used or beta-tested for use in the UVM industry.

Biography: Seth Reid is CN Utility Consulting’s Technical Applications Manager who has 10+ years of inspection-related work experience within the utility vegetation management (UVM) industry. He has obtained the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) arborist certifi cation (2007), utility specialist certifi cation (2008), and tree risk assessment qualifi cation (2013). He is also an expert in the biological sciences and completed his master’s thesis, Ecological and social drivers of tree species diversity and distribution in urban habitats of the Central Valley of California, at California State University Fresno (2011). Seth is experienced at planning distribution, transmission, and reliability projects in ROWs, backyards, orchards, and biologically sensitive areas. He has conducted advanced inspections such as reliability tree risk assessments, inspector and tree-work audits, outage investigations, and storm-related tree assessments and restoration work. Seth specializes in the application of advanced measuring techniques such as LiDAR, Ike GPS, and SPIKE to UVM activities.

The Latest and Greatest in Gadgets for Utility Vegetation Managers


Communications in the Modern World

Abstract: Social media has been increasingly shaping our ever-changing world. Utilities are leveraging social media for reputation management, customer engagement and communications during storms and other times when service is interrupted. Public relations teams are partnering with vegetation management departments to provide up-to-date information on storm response eff orts. Tapping into the power and reach of social media can help a utility understand its customers and enhance their satisfaction. Learn top takeaways for utilizing social media today!

Learning Objectives:

1. Discover why you can’t aff ord to ignore social media2. Learn how utilities are leveraging various online channels in our digital world3. Determine the best ways to start or enhance your social media platforms

Biography: Bryan Durr, is based out of California and is a Business Development Manager with ACRT. He has spent the last decade with ACRT working in the utility vegetation management industry in supervisory and management capacities. Bryan has held several committee chair and offi cer roles internally with ACRT and currently occupies an employee seat on ACRT’s Board of Directors. His professional experience encompasses utilities throughout the country, primarily in the southeast and western United States. Bryan has a degree in Forestry from Hocking College, is a professional member of the UAA and recognized as a certifi ed arborist and utility specialist with the International Society of Arboriculture.



Vegetation Management: An Annual Assessment Approach

Abstract: Electricity utilities have an obligation (often explicitly regulated, but always intrinsically present) to ensure the safe and effi cient delivery of electrical energy despite the evolving built and natural environment through which the network traverses. The nature of the duty of care arising from operation of the electrical network is resulting in increased public scrutiny (and subsequent litigation), particularly in relation to the manner in which encroaching vegetation is managed.

The interaction of vegetation and powerlines is highly visible and often a key factor in shaping the perception of utilities’ eff ectiveness in the eyes of the community and stakeholders. While there are diff erent drivers in each jurisdiction that aff ect vegetation management programs (network topology, legislation, political, environment), the factors that aff ect risk associated with managing vegetation in the vicinity of powerlines are universal.

Traditionally, budget constraints and/or a lack of knowledge about vegetation condition has resulted in reactive vegetation management programs conducted by infi eld inspection, practically limited to 3-year or longer cycles, resulting in increased asset life-cycle costs, increased public and network risk, and reduced network reliability. The availability of aff ordable ‘Virtual World Asset Management’ services presents a new paradigm for a network-wide proactive approach to vegetation management where signifi cant uplift in intelligence and knowledge associated with monitoring individual tree’s annually and their networks clearance allows power infrastructure operators and owners to make considerable savings of up to 40% on traditional programs while optimizing their asset risk.

Biography: Pat Carberry is the Business Development Manager and Roames Technical Expert for Fugro’s Americas region. Fugro’s Roames platform provides visualization, reporting and analysis capabilities by modeling a utility’s network and surrounding environment in a 3D virtual world. The Roames virtual world provides a comprehensive look at the state of vegetation around a utility’s network assets enabling a utility to increase safety and reliability while delivering cost savings through operational efficiencies and the use of innovative treatment strategies. Before joining Fugro, Pat spent the 9 years in the utility industry working for Exelon in a variety of different roles. One of those roles was a 2 ½ year assignment as Baltimore Gas and Electric’s vegetation program manager. He has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from University of Maryland, B.S. in Physics from Salisbury University and is working towards his MBA from University of Maryland.


Use of Low Volume Herbicide Application in Integrated Vegetation Management on

Transmission Rights of Way in Remote Areas


Abstract: The use of Herbicide in Integrated Vegetation Management is crucial to maintain low-growing, relatively stable plant communities. Furthermore, Vegetation Managers need to select the most cost eff ective treatment to maximize clearance eff orts.

Low volume herbicide application is attained when used with the carrier system Thinvert©. Low volume applications utilizing Thinvert© can result in cost savings of up to 75% compared to mixtures that require water as the carrier in arid regions (southwest US).

On a recent and current study in Arizona, (Arizona Public Service, IVM Partners, Dovertail Partners Inc.) test plots revealed that areas that were treated with the Thinvert© blend had over 90% effi cacy compared to areas treated with same application with water as carrier.

The combined benefi t of low volume application and high effi cacy results in cost eff ective, low disturbance component of IVM.

Biography: Ron Romero is an owner/operator of Southwest Ground Control, a licensed Vegetation Management company in Arizona, operating in Nevada, California and Arizona. As a minority business owner, Ron started as a Landscape Maintenance specialist over 20 years ago and quickly grew his business to an award winning vendor providing vegetation management to Utility Companies with a focus on sustainability and Best Practices.


Abstract: This presentation will focus on a complete herbicide tracking solution that has been tailored to the electric utility industry. Features include the ability to mark points, lines and polygons and take pictures that have geospatial reference. Each of these features can have a form associated to it that captures all relevant data for the property type they are working on (private, utility, BLM, USFS, and Departments of Agriculture). Some of the data fi elds we are capturing include: contractor contact info, applicator name and license number, utility, line name, span number, acres, square feet, volume applied, prescription mix, drum number, target species, etc. The forms are customized for effi cient manipulation through the use of drop downs and auto population from previous selections.

Inventory management is enhanced with the use of custom blended herbicide delivered in a returnable/refi llable container. Unique drum numbers may be tracked from the custom blender to the ship location to the crews. Batch reporting capability deplete the inventory from the uniquely identifi ed drum numbers. Reports can show the volume of material at each location.

Reporting capabilities include gallons per acre, acres treated, and gallon used that may be separated by contractor, mix, line name, span, crew, applicator, and drum number. Reports also include summaries by total prescription, individual product trade name, EPA registration number and active ingredient.

The system as a whole provides a complete herbicide tracking solution that provides greater accountability of herbicide use to show responsible use from contractor to the utility and utility to shareholders. The system dovetails with the Utility Arborist Association’s (UAA), Best Management Practice (BMP) for the Closed Chain of Custody for herbicides.

Biography: Jason is the National Accounts Manager for CWC Chemical, Inc based out of Roanoke, VA. He began working with CWC in 2000. He manages a portfolio of national accounts for utility vegetation management. He has been instrumental in the collaboration and startup of several level 1 and coop herbicide spray programs. He provides training to utilities and private contractors on the correct use of herbicides. Through this training they have developed research and demonstration plots that have been coordinated between manufacturers, contractors, utilities and the state and federal agencies.

Before working for CWC Chemical he was a Vegetation Specialist with BASF Corporation covering the western states of Montana, Wyoming, and North and South Dakota. His responsibilities included sales and marketing of Arsenal, Plateau, Stalker and Sahara herbicides.

He graduated from the University of Missouri in Columbia with a B.S degree in Forestry in 1996 and an M.B.A. in 1998. He is an active member in the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and a Certifi ed Wildlife Biologist through the Wildlife Society. He is a Certifi ced Consultant in pesticide use in Oregon and a Commercial Applicator and approved instructor (NY #899) in New York. He’s also a licensed Commercial Applicator in Aquatics and Utility Rights- of- Way in Virginia. He is an active member in the International Society of Arborculture (ISA) and the Mountain Lake Vegetation Management Council.

Complete Herbicide Tracking Solution with GIS Data & Electronic Forms



Abstract: The presentation will focus on the benefi ts of digital record keeping for herbicide applications which include: job tracking, productivity, accuracy, documentation for claims, and closed chain of custody for herbicide containers.

Spray crew personnel in the fi eld use a custom-designed application (app) installed on an Android tablet to record data, which generates a report in a PDF form that is legible, accurate and easy to email to supervision. Features include drop down menus, application rates with EPA registration numbers, target species, time stamped photos, return-refi ll drum scanning, acreage and square foot calculation, gallons of end-use solution applied, as well as information needed by state inspectors. Information stays populated for redundant fi elds, unless it needs to be changed. The app does not need to be in a Wi-Fi or cellular area in order to record data - once a connection is made, a report can be sent.

Biography: Joe has been involved in vegetation management for the past 40+ years. Since 1985, as an Arborchem employee, he has provided technical service and sales of herbicides, adjuvants and application equipment to Utilities, Contractor’s, DOT’s and Invasive vegetation managers. Arborchem’s emphasis is to promote the safe and eff ective use of herbicides to the industry throughout the United States. Objectives are to provide a high percentage of control of

targeted vegetation, provide a productive application, and insure no off target damage.

Responsibilities include:• Safety• Environmental and Product stewardship• Crew Training• Develop new Application Techniques• Present at Industry Seminars

Joe has a degree in Environmental Sciences. He is active in national and regional vegetation management meetings and was recognized in 2008 by the Utility Arborist Association with the Education Award.

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Benefi ts of Digital Record Keeping for Herbicide Applications


Notes:

All conference guests are eligible for a discounted group rate of $159 (USD), subject to availability. Simply mention “CEATI International” when reserving.

Hilton Scottsdale

6333 North Scottsdale RoadScottsdale, Arizona 85250-5428+1. 480. 948. 7750

Tel: +1.514.866.5377 • Fax: +1.514.904.5038 • [email protected] • www.ceati.com

Location Information

Our fall 2016 Vegetation Management Conference is organized with the support of CEATI’s Vegetation

Management Task Force (VMTF) composed exclusively of electrical utility representatives from 14

participating utilities:

Why Partner with CEATI Events?The CEATI Program Model provides electrical utilities with a cost-effective vehicle for sharing experiences and addressing issues pertinent to their day-to-day operations, maintenance and planning. In addition to serving as a strong technical resource tool through 18 focus areas across generation, transmission, and

distribution, our participants support the development of industry-open conferences and training workshops. This is where we invite you to come join us.

Our industry-open events bring manufacturers, service providers, consultants, and world-renowned technical experts together with some of the key-decision makers in the industry. These events present excellent opportunities for targeted networking and exposure to potential clients, placing you directly in front of the end-users of your company’s products and services.

Exhibitor Floorplan

Opportunities Available

Tel: +1.514.866.5377 • Fax: +1.514.904.5038 • [email protected] • www.ceati.com

Entrance

7

8

1 6

ECI Consulting

FugroQuantum Spatial

Vegetation Management Topics & Issues

Environmental issues

Regulatory requirements & compliance frameworks

Public & social issues

Vegetation management program optimization

Responsible vegetation management practices

New materials & techniques

INITIATED IN 2013

Technical AdvisorGwen Shrimpton (RPF, RPBio, MPM) is a Registered Professional Forester, Registered Professional Biologist, and has a Master’s Degree in Pest Management. She worked for BC Hydro for 20 years developing vegetation management strategies and standards, and leading research projects. Her specializations include integrated vegetation management planning and programming, First Nations negotiation, and environmental issues and regulations. She developed vegetation management programs for the transmission and distribution systems as well as for weed control in substations. Gwen is currently the President of the Integrated Vegetation Management Association of BC and was chosen as a member of the FAC- 003 vegetation standards drafting team for the North American Electric Reliability Corporation.

The effective management of vegetation on transmission and distribution corridors is essential to the reliable supply of electricity and to ensure public and worker safety. Vegetation programs must also comply with new and emerging regulations, meet public and landowner expectations and consider environmental issues. Programs involve responding to public, First Nations, Government, and landowner requests and concerns, while still achieving control that will comply with NERC and other requirements in a cost effective manner. Managing vegetation can range from pruning or removing individual trees to encouraging the establishment of low growing compatible plant communities on a right-of-way. These are a few of the issues that must be addressed when developing a comprehensive and effective vegetation management program.

The Vegetation Management Program will focus on issues of interest to staff at electrical utilities who are managing the vegetation programs. The emphasis of the group is on program development and management, such as justifying budgets, work planning, addressing regulatory issues, managing contractors, and setting standards and guidelines for the work.

The group provides vegetation managers with a cost-effective vehicle for sharing experiences and addressing issues pertinent to their day-to-day operations, maintenance and planning. The primary benefit to program participation lies in the ability to tap into the wealth of experience and knowledge of other electrical utility participants so members can learn from the mistakes and successes of others.

Annual Activities

Participation is open to:

Project Reports

2-Day Industry Conference

General Meeting

Regular Conference Calls

4-6 Training Webinars

On-Demand Information Exchange

Electrical Utilities

Government Agencies

Independent Power Distributers

Over the years more than 1500 projects have been completed and published in the fields of:

Generation; Transmission; Distribution; Utilization

For a complete listing, please consult our website.

CEATI International Inc. (CEATI) 1010 Sherbrooke St. W., Suite 2500 Montreal, QC Canada H3A 2R7

Phone: +1. 514. 866. 5377 Fax: +1. 514. 904. 5038

www.ceati.com [email protected]

Core Themes for 2016The Vegetation Management Program focuses on many of the areas noted below and it is anticipated that this list will develop and evolve over time to accommodate the interest of the participating members.

Program Management:

• Justifying vegetation management budgets• Information exchange related to line clearance specifications• Herbicide use - cost benefit analysis and guidelines• Vegetation management program optimization• Effective procurement strategies

Techniques and products:

• New herbicide products• Use of LiDAR data for in vegetation management programs

Public and social Issues:

• Developing a library of public messages• Innovative tools to enhance public relations

Environmental Issues:

• Maintaining and increasing biodiversity on power line corridors• Creating habitat for pollinators• Programs and procedures for managing invasive plants• Fire risk management

For more information, please visit: www.ceati.com/VMTF

Collaborative Projects• Vegetation management cost benefit of herbicide use• Control of weeds in electrical facilities such as substations,

switchyards, capacitor stations and cable termination sites

Thank You to all of our Exhibitors!

www.ceati.com

Drone Demonstration Location

www.ceati.com

Documents

3rd Annual Vegetation Management Conference · PDF fileThe Vegetation Management ... 3:55 Complete Herbicide Tracking Solution with ... 2015 CEATI Vegetation Management conference