As woody debris piles up from dead trees killed by the drought and bark beetle infestation, PG and E has launched an expanded, free removal program. That’s where a tree, or debris, could come in contact with a power line. Spokesperson Brandi Ehlers-Merlo says ten counties will benefit, including Placer and El Dorado…but not Nevada County, so far…

click to listen to Brandi Ehlers-Merlo

Local states of emergency have been declared in the affected counties. Removing entire trees, especially the large Ponderosa pines, can be a major expense for property owners. If you feel you qualify, Merlo says the number to call is 1-800-743-5000…

click to listen to Brandi Ehlers-Merlo

PG and E will only dispose of debris that it takes down. It says the debris must be reasonably accessible by equipment and machinery, and the debris must also be within 100 feet of permanent structures, or within 20 feet of serviceable roadways.