Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) is a rapidly growing multi-billion dollar a year industry employing tens of thousands of people. UVM is the largest operational expense in most electric utilities and frequently the largest driver of system reliability and outage management. In recent years, climate change, wildfires, storms and Public Safety Power Shutoffs have brought the industry into mainstream news. Several groups including government, regulators, utilities, contractors, industry and the public are now active stakeholders and contribute to the public debate. Despite high levels of concern and interest in the subject matter, communications on the topic have been restricted to traditional media outlets. The UVM Podcast is the first of its kind. It aims to directly insert itself in the public conversation as a 21st Century medium to discuss and address the challenges that face us all. The podcast is hosted by Stephen Cieslewicz, an internationally recognized expert in UVM, and Nick Ferguson, a Tech Sector leader specializing in Utility Vegetation Management.
42 | Leadership, Change and the Future of Utility Vegetation Management
Leadership Change and the Future of Utility Vegetation Management Show Notes This episode features an engaging discussion with Ron Adams and Shawn Standish. Stephen Cieslewicz and Nick Ferguson explore leadership, strategic planning, the evolution of Utility Vegetation Management, the lasting impact of the 2003 Northeast Blackout, the implementation of NERC FAC-003, organizational change, wildfire mitigation, and practical advice for both utilities and technology providers seeking to engage with utilities. The conversation combines decades of industry experience with practical lessons that can be applied by utility leaders, field personnel, consultants, regulators, and vendors. About the Guests Ron Adams spent his career with Duke Energy, one of the largest investor owned electric utilities in North America, serving millions of electric customers across six states with one of the nation's largest transmission and distribution systems. During his tenure he held numerous leadership positions, including responsibility for all Transmission and Distribution Utility Vegetation Management activities. Ron has been a respected leader in advancing utility reliability, strategic Utility Vegetation Management, organizational leadership, and operational excellence. Throughout the industry he is recognized for his thoughtful approach to leadership, change management, and building high performing organizations. While only partially retired, Ron is currently consulting with utilities and service providers. Shawn Standish built a similarly distinguished career with FirstEnergy, one of the nation's largest investor owned electric utilities, serving more than six million customers across the Midwest and Mid Atlantic regions. During his career he led major Utility Vegetation Management initiatives across a large and diverse electric system while helping improve system reliability, operational performance, and risk management. Today, as a consultant, Shawn continues to work with utilities across North America, combining practical field experience with strategic leadership to help organizations strengthen their vegetation management programs and adapt to an evolving industry. Together, Ron and Shawn represent more than seventy years of combined Utility Vegetation Management leadership, having managed programs serving millions of customers and overseeing vegetation management across tens of thousands of miles of transmission and distribution lines. Their perspectives come from decades of making real world decisions at two of the largest electric utilities in the United States. Topics Discussed Leadership and mentorship Building an effective Utility Vegetation Management strategy Lessons learned from the 2003 Northeast Blackout The impact of NERC FAC 003 Organizational change and leadership Wildfire mitigation Working effectively with technology providers The future of Utility Vegetation Management Sponsors This episode of The UVM Podcast is made possible by our commercial sponsors: Celerity Utility Solutions Clear Path Utility Solutions LLC We appreciate their continued support of industry education and conversation.
41 | Grid Resilience Summit Ep. 1: Director Caroline Thomas Jacobs, Energy Safety
Episode 1: Grid Resilience & Safety — Caroline Thomas Jacobs, California Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety This is the first of a six-part series recorded live at the Grid Resilience Summit, a half-day industry event organised by LiveEO. Hosts Nick Ferguson and Steve Cieslewicz hand over to moderator Patrick Hollenbeck for a keynote and Q&A with Caroline Thomas Jacobs, Director of California's Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety — known as Energy Safety. Caroline has appeared on the UVM Podcast before: she was the very first guest when the show launched. Her return here marks another milestone — this is the UVM Podcast's inaugural video episode after four years of audio-only production since 2021. About Energy Safety Energy Safety was created in 2020 in direct response to the catastrophic utility-caused wildfires of 2017 and 2018, which killed over 100 people and destroyed more than 25,000 structures. Its core mission: review and approve annual Wildfire Mitigation Plans submitted by California's electric utilities, oversee their implementation through audits and field inspections, and drive the cultural change inside utilities needed to truly integrate fire risk into how they build, operate, and maintain the grid. Crucially, Energy Safety was designed not to be a traditional penalty-based regulator. The focus is on continuous improvement and learning — holding utilities accountable to developing new capabilities, not just meeting minimum standards. What's working Five years in, the data is encouraging. Total ignitions in California's High Fire Threat Districts in 2024 were down 18% on the seven-year average, and down 34% compared to 2020. Utilities have invested billions in grid hardening — covered conductor, undergrounding, remote sensing devices — and have deployed satellite imagery, LIDAR, and AI-driven risk modelling to transform how they manage vegetation and assess asset condition. A mandatory performance metrics regime means utilities must now demonstrate that their mitigations are reducing risk, not just describe what they're doing. As Caroline puts it: utilities were never going to cut their way out of the wildfire problem. They had to innovate their way out. Landscape-scale coordination California's Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force — created by Governor Newsom in 2021 — is aligning federal, state, local, tribal, and private organisations around shared forest health goals. It has invested nearly $6 billion and now treats over 700,000 acres annually. Energy Safety leads the development of a Utility Wildfire Resilience Partnership Program, modelled on a successful collaboration between Liberty Utilities, the US Forest Service, and the Tahoe Conservancy in the Lake Tahoe basin, designed to amplify the impact of utility corridor investments through landscape-scale coordination. The challenge ahead The January 2025 LA fires are a sobering reminder that the wildfire threat is not receding — climate conditions once considered extreme are now the norm. Building California's clean energy future (targeting 100% clean electricity by 2045) on ageing, wildfire-prone infrastructure is not sustainable. Caroline is clear that urgency, equity, and cross-agency coordination are all essential — the communities facing the greatest wildfire risk are too often the ones with the least access to backup power and recovery resources. In the Q&A , Caroline addresses whether California's separated regulatory model can be replicated in other states (political will, not financing, is the key enabler), how the Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force is structured to actually get things done, and the role of the Wildfire Safety Advisory Board in advising both Energy Safety and California's 50 publicly owned utilities. 🎙 Hosted by Nick Ferguson & Steve Cieslewicz 📍 Recorded at the LiveEO Grid Resilience Summit 📺 Part 1 of 6 Subscribe for the remaining five sessions — covering grid modernisation, storm resilience, wildfire technology, and more. Got a topic suggestion? Email us: podcast@utilityvegetationmanagement.com View this episode with video on YouTube https://youtu.be/rXjTjcAmNYYhttps://youtu.be/rXjTjcAmNYY . A big thanks to LiveEO ( www.live-eo.com ) for organizing the summit.
40 | NERC: Executive Order 14308, Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response
In this episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Nick Ferguson and Stephen Cieslewicz are joined by Jim Kubrak , Senior Technical Advisor at The North American Electric Reliability Corporation ( NERC ) and a key author of the newly released draft report, Reducing the Risk of Wildfire Ignition by the Bulk Power System. Together, they explore how wildfire risk is rapidly evolving from a regional concern into a continent-wide reliability issue for the electric grid. Jim shares insights into NERC’s growing focus on wildfire as a critical reliability threat, highlighting data that shows increasing outage impacts and significantly longer restoration times compared to other severe weather events. The conversation dives into what prompted the report, namely a FERC directive following a Presidential Executive Order, and why its findings could be as transformative as past regulatory milestones like FAC-003. A major focus of the discussion is how vegetation management must adapt. Key recommendations include expanding FAC-003 applicability down to 100 kV lines, increasing vegetation treatment frequency in high fire risk areas, and extending management practices beyond traditional rights-of-way. The episode also explores the role of advanced technologies. such as satellite data, LiDAR, AI, and weather modeling, in enabling more proactive, risk-based decision-making. Jim emphasizes the importance of collaboration, data standardization, and stakeholder engagement as the industry moves toward implementation. He also underscores the opportunity for utilities to align Wildfire Mitigation Plans (WMPs) with Transmission Vegetation Management Programs (TVMPs) to create a more holistic approach to wildfire prevention. With a public comment period closing on March 27th 2026 and standards development on the horizon, this episode is a must-listen for utility professionals seeking to understand, and influence, the future of wildfire risk mitigation on the bulk power system. A big thank you to this episode’s sponsors, Jack McCabe , Ali Kulick , Darik Warnke , and the entire team at Davey Resource Group, Inc ., without whose support this episode wouldn’t have been possible. The draft report from NERC can be found here . Materials from the NERC Workshop held in January 2026 can be found here .
39 | Pro-UVM with UW–Stevens Point
In this episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Stephen R. Cieslewicz and Nick Ferguson, sit down with Sara Sankowich (Vice President Shared Services and Sustainability - Unitil ) and Randy Miller (Director of Research and Development- Eocene) from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point to discuss the Professional Utility Vegetation Management (Pro-UVM) Program and what it means for the future of our industry. Sara and Randy explain how the program was created to bridge the gap between traditional forestry education and the realities of utility vegetation management — reliability pressure, wildfire risk, regulatory scrutiny, and public accountability. The conversation breaks down: • Foundations and Advanced Certificates • The Professional UVM Credential pathway • Course format, time commitment, grading, and CEU eligibility • Who the program is built for — utilities, contractors, consultants, and regulators • How the credential can strengthen hiring, advancement, and program credibility The episode also highlights recent efforts at UW–Stevens Point to further institutionalize UVM, including exploration of establishing a full-time faculty position dedicated specifically to leading and expanding Utility Vegetation Management efforts at the university — a clear signal that UVM is evolving into a recognized professional discipline. Steve and Nick push the larger question: What does it truly mean to professionalize UVM — and will structured education help move the industry from reactive cycle management toward risk-based, proactive strategies? Whether you are entering the field or leading a large vegetation program, this episode offers a practical look at how education and credentials may shape the next generation of UVM leadership. Sponsors This episode of The UVM Podcast is made possible by our commercial sponsors: Celerity Utility Solutions Clear Path Utility Solutions LLC We appreciate their continued support of industry education and conversation.
38 | Matt Allen, Portland General Electric
In this episode of The UVM Podcast , hosts Steve Cieslewicz and Nick Ferguson sit down with Matt Allen of Portland General Electric (PGE) to unpack what it really looks like to transition from private arboriculture into utility vegetation management. After spending 27 years in the private tree care industry, Matt made the leap into the utility world. Now three years in, Matt reflects on the early culture shock, the steep learning curve, and the skills that translated surprisingly well from residential and commercial arboriculture into large-scale utility operations. The conversation explores the differences between private and utility “customers,” managing crews and contracts at scale, and how expectations shift when public safety, reliability, and regulation enter the picture. Matt also shares what helped him survive those first overwhelming years, what he’d tell someone considering the same career move, and how experienced utility professionals can better support newcomers coming from the private side. Beyond career transitions, the episode dives into bigger-picture topics like breaking down silos between contractors and utilities, how private arboriculture and utility forestry can learn from each other, and what’s currently happening inside PGE, including vegetation initiatives and wildfire mitigation efforts tied to Wildfire Mitigation Plans (WMPs). Whether you’re thinking about making the jump into utility vegetation management, onboarding new talent from the private sector, or looking for ways to strengthen collaboration across the industry, this episode offers candid insights from someone who’s lived on both sides of the fence. A huge thank you to the sponsor of this season and episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions.
37 | Andy Abranches, VP Wildfire Mitigation, Pacific Gas and Electric
In this episode of The Utility Vegetation Management Podcast , hosts Stephen Cieslewicz and Nick Ferguson speak with Andy Abranches , VP of Wildfire Mitigation at PG&E , about how wildfire risk has fundamentally changed. Andy discusses climate and non-climate drivers of extreme wildfire, the evolving role of vegetation management, data-driven mitigation, and the realities of Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). The conversation also covers coordination with fire agencies, home hardening, defensible space, and what gives Andy optimism as utilities adapt to a new wildfire paradigm.
36 | Dennis Fallon, The New Strategic Direction of the UAA
In this episode of The UVM podcast, hosts Steve Cieslewicz and Nick Ferguson welcome Dennis Fallon, Executive Director of The Utility Arborist Association (UAA) to discuss the organization's strategic plans and evolution. Dennis shares the UAA's ambitious vision for the next 5 years, maintaining its historic role of supporting arborists while evolving to become the voice of the Right-of-Way (ROW) industry. This will involve driving industry norms and best management practices to influence a broader collection of stakeholders. An example is provided on the lack of standardization in the investigation of tree-caused outages. Utilities with advanced programs collect good data but not to one standard, and researchers therefore have a hard time utilizing this information and drawing conclusions from it. The UAA seeks to move the industry away from data ponds towards communal data lakes that we all stand to benefit from. In addition to the strategic vision for The UAA, the episode includes a debrief of the record-breaking Trees and Utilities event that took place in September 2025, and a brief on the Environmental Concerns in Right-of-Way Management Symposium that will take place May 11-14 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Past proceedings from the conference can be found here . A huge thank you to the sponsor of this season and episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions .
Wildfire Mitigation and the Future of Utility Management with Ryan Korpela In this episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Nick Ferguson and Steve Cieslewicz hold an in-depth conversation on one of the most pressing issues facing utilities today — wildfire mitigation. Their guest, Ryan Korpela, President at Celerity Utilities and Clear Path Utility Solutions, joins to discuss how his teams are helping utilities strengthen safety, compliance, and operational resilience in an increasingly challenging environment. Ryan shares the origin story of Clear Path Utility Solutions and its relationship with Celerity, detailing how the company bridges the gap between construction management, vegetation services, and environmental compliance. He outlines Clear Path’s comprehensive suite of services — from risk compliance audits and emergency response to technology-driven vegetation management — all designed to help utilities stay ahead of regulatory requirements and insurer expectations. The discussion also explores the growing role of technology and data analytics in making vegetation management more predictive, proactive, and integrated with infrastructure planning. Ryan offers valuable insights into the evolving wildfire threat, how utilities can better prepare for extreme weather, and why partnering with expert-driven teams is key to achieving safety and efficiency goals. As the episode wraps up, listeners are left with practical advice on staying proactive, embracing innovation, and fostering collaboration to build a safer, more reliable energy grid. Learn more about Clear Path Utility Solutions at clearpathutilityconsulting.com
34 | Chris Vetromile, Austin Energy
Co‑hosts Nick Ferguson and Steve Cieslewicz sit down with Chris Vetromile , Wildfire Mitigation Manager at Austin Energy , to unpack how a municipal utility in Central Texas is building a modern wildfire program. Chris traces his career path from California to Texas, then walks through the region’s often‑overlooked wildfire risks and how they differ from the West Coast model. The conversation explores Austin Energy’s preparation for potential state requirements around utility wildfire mitigation plans, the role of technology (including tools like Technosylva), and the way local vegetation—oak and juniper rather than pines—shapes tactics on the ground. Listeners get a look at operational readiness during red‑flag conditions, how wildfire risk is being woven into routine vegetation‑management cycles, the overlap with WUI codes and defensible‑space responsibilities, and how grid‑modernization efforts support prevention and response. The episode also tackles the politics of tree work after major storms like Yuri and Mara , and closes with Chris’s practical advice for utilities standing up new programs in regions where wildfire is a newer concern. A big thank you to the sponsors of this episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions .
33 | Floyd Hardin, Salt River Project
In this episode of The Utility Vegetation Management Podcast , hosts Nick Ferguson and Stephen Cieslewicz sit down with Floyd Hardin of Salt River Project (SRP) to explore how one of the nation’s largest public power utilities is navigating wildfire risk in the unique landscapes of the desert Southwest. Floyd shares how SRP is learning from the wildfire experiences of states like California and Oregon, adapting those lessons to its own operations. The conversation dives into the challenges of managing invasive grass species across desert grasslands, and the balance between fuels reduction and fuels removal in high-risk areas. The discussion also highlights the respectful and collaborative work SRP does on tribal lands, including cultural and regulatory considerations. Floyd explains SRP’s “no-reclose” policy during fire season—a bold step in wildfire mitigation—and discusses its practical implications for system reliability and public safety. Listeners will also hear about SRP’s innovative defensible space program around distribution poles, its measurable impact on reducing outages and ignition risks, and what the future holds for wildfire prevention efforts. Key Topics Covered: Lessons learned from Western wildfires Wildfire risk in desert ecosystems Managing invasive species as fuel sources SRP’s approach to fuels reduction vs. removal Collaborating with tribal nations Implementing a no-reclose policy Defensible space for distribution poles Future innovations in vegetation management Whether you’re in a utility, land management, or policy role, this episode offers actionable insights into proactive wildfire mitigation in diverse environments. A huge thank you to the sponsor of this season and episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions .
32 | Insurance and UVM
In this episode of The UVM Podcast, Steve and Nick explore the complex intersection of Utility Vegetation Management and the insurance industry with a focus on insurance for UVM Service Providers. With increasing risks from wildfires, storms, and climate change, insurers are re-evaluating their coverage models for utilities. The episode addresses how proactive vegetation management can impact insurance claims, liability assessments, and rate structures. Our hosts also discuss real-world examples, changes in insurance underwriting practices, and opportunities for better alignment between utilities and insurers to mitigate wildfire and storm-related damages. This timely conversation sheds light on how UVM professionals can prepare for a future where insurance plays a larger role in operational and financial planning. The episode format is a round table and the guests are: Jett Abramson , EVP at Amwins Group Mark Shipp , Senior EVP and Practice Leader from Hub Arbor Insurance Group Joshua Caudill, Founder and President, Safety Leadership Innovators A big thank you to this episode's sponsor, Clear Path Utility Solutions .
31 | The UVM Report - 2025
In this episode, Nick interviews Steve, to discuss his 2025 UVM report calling for a transformation in how utilities manage vegetation near power infrastructure. With over four decades of experience shaping industry standards and investigating some of the most significant failures in North American grid reliability—including the 2003 Northeast Blackout—Cieslewicz outlines why traditional, reactive vegetation management is no longer viable. He makes a powerful case for proactive, data-driven strategies that not only prevent wildfires and outages but also address regulatory gaps, environmental justice, and rising utility costs. Nick delves into his recommendations for integrating proven practices like Right Tree, Right Place (RTRP), Trees for Energy Conservation (TEC), and defensible space standards into utility operations. Listeners will hear how emerging technologies like AI, LiDAR, and satellite monitoring can revolutionize risk detection, and why cost equity must become a central focus of UVM reform. Whether you're a utility professional, regulator, or community stakeholder, this conversation sheds light on the urgent need to reimagine how we manage our energy landscapes—and why failure to act now could have catastrophic consequences. The full report can be downloaded here . A big thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions , providing world-class construction management, vegetation management, emergency / non-emergency management, quality support and pre-inspections services to utility companies in North America.
30 | Ben Silverman, International Wildfire Risk Mitigation Consortium (IWRMC)
In this episode, Nick and Steve are joined by Ben Silverman. Ben is a Program Director at E-Source, who is one of the founding members of the International Wildfire Risk Mitigation Consortium (IWRMC). They begin by discussing the mission of the IWRMC and the history behind its creation. Ben shares the structure they have established to ensure that their monthly conversations are collaborative and productive while navigating complex regulatory requirements. After sharing an overview of the four areas the IWRMC focuses on, Ben then gives a more in-depth look at how the group is looking at Vegetation Management. The conversation wraps up with a look forward to what is in store for the IWRMC and a look back at some of the group's accomplishments thus far. If you are interested in joining IWRMC, you can contact Ben at ben_silverman@esource.com To find out more about IWRMC, visit https://www.esource.com/public/international-wildfire-risk-mitigation-consortium
29 | Dennis Fallon, Utility Arborist Association, Brian Eubanks, PG&E/ Saluting Branches
In this episode of the UVM Podcast, hosts Nick and Steve sit down with Dennis Fallon, Executive Director of the Utility Arborist Association (UAA), to discuss the highly anticipated Trees & Utilities Conference. This year’s event will be held in Fort Worth, Texas, from September 10th to September 12th, and it’s shaping up to be one of the largest gatherings yet. Dennis shares his excitement about the record-breaking attendance expected this year and expresses his gratitude for the hard work behind the scenes that’s making this event possible. The discussion highlights the many aspects that make Trees & Utilities the must-attend event in the industry, including valuable networking opportunities, the sold-out vendor showcase, and the highly anticipated Annual Awards Dinner. The hosts and Dennis agree that what truly sets this conference apart is the camaraderie and knowledge-sharing that takes place throughout the week. Nick also mentions that he’ll be putting on an Oktoberfest celebration with US and German colleagues at the conference, so be sure to find him for some pretzels and steins of beer! As they talk about the Annual Awards Dinner, the conversation turns to a heartfelt tribute to Dan Marsh, a former Lifetime Achievement Award winner and industry legend, who sadly passed away last week. Dennis, Nick, and Steve reflect on Dan’s contributions to the field and remember him as a true professional and gentleman. Finally, Dennis encourages all attendees to download the Conference App before the event and to provide feedback through the event survey to help the team continue delivering an exceptional experience year after year. Later in the episode, Steve is joined by Brian Eubanks, a U.S. Navy veteran and active member of the UVM industry, to discuss Saluting Branches and their upcoming day of service. Saluting Branches is a nonprofit organization founded by arborists to honor and assist veterans by providing tree care services at national cemeteries and other veteran properties. This year’s annual event will take place on Wednesday, September 18th. Brian shares the mission of Saluting Branches and explains why his role as the site leader for the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery is so meaningful to him. He emphasizes the importance of giving back to those who have served and encourages listeners to get involved. For more information on how to participate in Saluting Branches, visit https://www.salutingbranches.org/ For more information on Trees and Utilities, visit https://www.treesandutilities.org/agenda.cfm .
28 | Utility Vegetation Management Institute, Larry Kahn, Tulane University Law School
In this episode, Steve is joined by a very special, and tough, guest co-host in Nick’s absence. The episode kicks off with Steve’s co-host sharing an update on all of the amazing work they have been doing since they last spoke. Once Steve and his co-host are caught up, they are joined by Professor Lawrence J. Kahn. Larry is an adjunct professor at Tulane University and Co-founder of the Utility Vegetation Management Institute (UVMI). This is the fourth episode, in a planned series of discussions with Professor Kahn, where we hope to raise issues worthy of consideration and debate in the UVM industry. Professor Kahn begins with an exciting update on what is going on with UVMI including a sneak peek at the upcoming UVMI Conference and a brief update on the progress being made to secure an esteemed collection of UVMI Expert Advisors. Larry then delves into his work supporting California’s Wildfire Safety Advisory Board (WSAB), highlighting his involvement in leading a scoping meeting that contributed to the WSAB's recent recommendations to the state, which were subsequently adopted. The conversation explores various WSAB recommendations, such as standardized terminology and the necessity for further studies on wildfire prevention in California. Finally, the group discusses the importance of equitable cost-sharing among utility providers to bolster wildfire prevention efforts. RESOURCES Here is the URL for the WSAB’s publication: https://energysafety.ca.gov/news/2024/02/07/wsab-adopts-policy-paper-recommendations/
27 | Eric Brown, Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD)
In today’s episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Nick and Steve are joined by industry thought leader Eric Brown, Manager of Grid Assets for Electric T&D Vegetation Management at Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD). Eric shares the serendipitous story of how he was first introduced to a career in the UVM field—right in a parking lot! Reflecting on his time at PG&E in various roles, Eric highlights the invaluable insights he gained from colleagues, peers, and consultants. Eventually, shared corridors and previous collaborations led Eric to his current role with SMUD, where he manages their T&D programs. Eric also sheds light on the nuances of SMUD's condensed yet unique service territory, spanning from desolate wilderness to the California State Capitol. The conversation then shifts to discussing the organizational and regulatory differences between Municipalities and Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs), with the ultimate assertion that both share a common goal of safety and reliability. They delve into some of SMUD’s specific programs, including their partnership with the Sacramento Tree Foundation, which supports the improvement of the Urban Forest as well as Social Equity in UVM. After reminiscing on Eric’s past role as UAA President and his continued involvement in the organization, they have a candid conversation about the industry's pressing issues. Topics range from consistency in UVM programs to the efficacy of cycle-based programs, with a significant discussion about technology's role and its continuing importance, particularly in inspection and quality control. As the discussion covers the evolving landscape of UVM work, they also address fires and other weather-related events. Eric outlines his participation in developing a program for managing risks around SMUD’s assets, specifically focusing on risks not within Right of Way or easements. This is followed by an insightful look at efforts being made to increase visibility and appeal of UVM Work as a career Wrapping up, Eric shares the inspiring work he is doing with Light Up Navajo. More information about Light Up Navajo can be found at https://www.ntua.com/ . We trust you’ll find this edition of the UVM Podcast enlightening. Should you have feedback or suggestions for upcoming topics, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at podcast@utilityvegetationmanagement.com .
26 | Tim Walsh, The Davey Tree Expert Company
In this episode, Nick and Steve have the privilege of hosting Tim Walsh, a key member of the UVM industry with decades of experience and a passionate advocate for safety. Tim, a former president of the UAA and current VP of Health and Safety at Davey Tree Company, kicks off the conversation by shedding light on the various committees available for UAA members to join and actively engage with the organization. Highlighting Trees and Utilities as the premier event in the UVM industry, Tim reflects on the significance of the event, drawing attention to the wealth of educational opportunities, research insights, networking, and hands-on experiences with cutting-edge equipment. With over 1,000 attendees in 2023, the event has become a cornerstone for students, contractors, employees, and vendors. The conversation then shifts to safety, where Tim emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong overall culture within organizations, one in which individuals exhibit consistent behavior in both personal and professional realms. Tim explains why there should not be a separate “Safety Culture”, rather, it should be an integral part of the overall culture. He advocates for a shift in focus from merely addressing what goes wrong to celebrating what goes right, transforming the narrative around safety. Tim challenges the traditional notions of "zero incidents" and "all incidents are preventable," offering fresh perspectives on cultivating a resilient safety system. As the discussion evolves, Tim provides valuable insights into upcoming changes in safety standards and rules within the UVM industry. He emphasizes that safety is not merely the absence of accidents but the presence of resilience in the system. Tim advocates for the incorporation of research and statistics in safety discussions, urging a holistic approach to enhance safety practices. In looking toward the future of safety in UVM, Tim explores ongoing challenges such as recruiting, retention, and employee engagement. He underscores the need to embed safety as an integral part of a company's culture and leaves listeners with a thoughtful reflection on the evolving landscape of safety within the UVM industry. Lastly Tim, Nick and Steve discuss some of the exciting technologies available in the UVM industry and how they can be used to enhance safety. We trust you’ll find this edition of the UVM Podcast enlightening. Should you have feedback or suggestions for upcoming topics, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at podcast@utilityvegetationmanagement.com .
25 | Jeremy Hayward, Redding Rancheria, Native American Tribe **CEUs available**
In an engaging podcast episode, Nick and Steve are joined by Jeremy Hayward, a member of the Redding Rancheria nation and President of the Redding Rancheria Economic Development Corporation (REDDCO). Jeremy also represents and speaks about the Native American owned UVM company, Essential Vegetation Management Services (EVMS). Jeremy delves into the rich tapestry of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), a treasure trove of indigenous communities' wisdom, practices, and beliefs that revolves around the symbiotic relationship between life and its environment. With a blend of culture, spirituality, history, and profound understanding of ecosystems, TEK stands as a testament to the intricate balance of nature. Jeremy emphasizes TEK's relevance in today's world, spotlighting its pivotal role in areas like conservation, climate change adaptation, biodiversity, and the holistic perspective it offers on ecosystems. The discussion traverses the practical applications of TEK, particularly among Native American tribes in California. Jeremy shares enlightening examples from tribes such as the Wintu, Pit River, and Yana, highlighting their age-old practices like controlled burns, sustainable resource management, plant cultivation, and active land stewardship. Branching out from TEK, Jeremy sheds light on his extensive array of companies with a vision focused on sustainability across "Seven Generations." He speaks with pride about their groundbreaking initiatives in green hydrogen production, harnessing waste from UVM operations to forge a sustainable energy path. Jeremy also touches upon his collaborative efforts, alongside a team of volunteer companies, to electrify the Navajo Nation, bringing much-needed power to their communities. We trust you'll find this edition of The UVM Podcast enlightening. Should you have feedback or suggestions for upcoming topics, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at podcast@utilityvegetationmanagement.com . A big thank you to this episode's sponsor, LiveEO . **CEUs available on the Utility Arborist Association (UAA) website here **
Part 2 In this episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Steve and Nick are joined by guest Madelyn Anderson, Senior Policy Officer of the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action in Victoria, Australia. The conversation covers a range of topics related to UVM, risk reduction, and powerline-related wildfires in the State of Victoria. Madelyn introduces herself and discusses her involvement with policy design after significant bushfire events in Australia. She highlights the increasing consequences of bushfires due to population expansion in high-risk areas and the impact of climate change on fire frequency and severity. They delve into Victoria's history of bushfires, including events like Black Saturday, and the impact of powerlines on ignitions. Madelyn describes the lessons learned from past wildfires and how they have influenced current practices and policies in Utility Vegetation Management. The discussion explores various strategies employed by the government to address vegetation management and minimize the risk of powerline-related wildfires. Madelyn details initiatives such as the Powerline Bushfire Safety Taskforce and advancements in technology for risk reduction. Madelyn explains the challenges of managing vegetation near powerlines while respecting Victoria's unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. They also discuss community engagement and public awareness efforts to educate residents about powerline safety and the importance of vegetation management. The success of the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program is highlighted, with significant reductions in ignition risk achieved through capital programs. Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest provide insights into the complexities of managing powerline-related wildfire risks and share valuable information about Victoria's approach to Utility Vegetation Management. The episode is split in two, of which this is part 2. Many thanks to this episode's sponsor, LiveEO ( www.live-eo.com ). ** CEUs --> visit the UAA Website to complete the questionnaire and receive your CEUs from ISA here
In this episode of The UVM Podcast, hosts Steve and Nick are joined by guest Madelyn Anderson, Senior Policy Officer of the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action in Victoria, Australia. The conversation covers a range of topics related to UVM, risk reduction, and powerline-related wildfires in the State of Victoria. Madelyn introduces herself and discusses her involvement with policy design after significant bushfire events in Australia. She highlights the increasing consequences of bushfires due to population expansion in high-risk areas and the impact of climate change on fire frequency and severity. They delve into Victoria's history of bushfires, including events like Black Saturday, and the impact of powerlines on ignitions. Madelyn describes the lessons learned from past wildfires and how they have influenced current practices and policies in Utility Vegetation Management. The discussion explores various strategies employed by the government to address vegetation management and minimize the risk of powerline-related wildfires. Madelyn details initiatives such as the Powerline Bushfire Safety Taskforce and advancements in technology for risk reduction. Madelyn explains the challenges of managing vegetation near powerlines while respecting Victoria's unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. They also discuss community engagement and public awareness efforts to educate residents about powerline safety and the importance of vegetation management. The success of the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program is highlighted, with significant reductions in ignition risk achieved through capital programs. Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest provide insights into the complexities of managing powerline-related wildfire risks and share valuable information about Victoria's approach to Utility Vegetation Management. The episode is split in two, of which this is part 1 Many thanks to this episode's sponsor, LiveEO ( www.live-eo.com ). ** CEUs --> visit the UAA Website to complete the questionnaire and receive your CEUs from ISA here
