SDG&E crews install a steel pole in the Cleveland National Forest. Photo courtesy of the utility

By Elizabeth Ireland Times of San Diego

San Diego Gas & Electric and the Cleveland National Forest completed a fire hardening and safety project, replacing thousands of wooden poles with steel to better protect the electrical grid from the impact of forest fires, it was announced Monday.

The project included wood-to-steel pole conversions and replacement or undergrounding of equipment to improve the fire resistance of electric infrastructure throughout 880 square miles in eastern San Diego, including the communities of Julian, Pauma Valley, Descanso, Pine Valley, Mount Laguna and Campo.

“This fire hardening project will not only safeguard communities within and adjacent to forest from potential wildfire threats, it also protects priority watersheds improves sensitive wildlife habitats and scenic areas,” said Cleveland National Forest Supervisor Scott Tangenberg. “This project was indeed a team effort, and it strengthened relationships and fostered new partnerships that will have lasting results for the cultural and natural resources we manage.”

Following the wildfire seasons of 2003 and 2007, SDG&E began planning and designing the fire-hardening programs. Construction began shortly after the company received approval from the California Public Utilities Commission and the United States Forest Service in 2016.

“This is an enormous accomplishment for our region and the result of incredible partnerships at the local, state and federal levels, as well as the patience of so many of our customers whose lives have been disrupted over the life of the project,” said Caroline Winn, SDG&E’s CEO. “Many dedicated crews and individuals worked for more than a decade, often in challenging conditions, and we are so proud and excited to announce its completion knowing that it plays a vital role in SDG&E’s commitment to making our electric system safer, cleaner and more reliable.”lick to read the full story

If you liked this post you’ll love our daily newsletter, EnviroPolitics. It’s packed with the latest news, commentary, and legislative updates from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware…and beyond. Don’t take our word for it, try it free for an entire month. No obligation.