The infrastructure of the United States consists of roads, buildings, and power supplies. As you drive through your neighborhood, you undoubtedly see poles delivering power to the surrounding homes. But who made room for all of these power lines? That’s where an excavation contractor and right of way (ROW) clearing come into play. Alaska Hydro Ax in Anchorage is here to explain this lesser-known process and why it’s important to everyone.

What Is ROW Clearing?

ROW clearing is the removal of any objects obstructing the installation of new utilities, such as trees, dirt, or rocks. During the process, surrounding trees are cut down and sometimes turned into mulch. Formations that can impede installation or maintenance are modified or avoided altogether to ensure successful utility setup. A variety of equipment—such as dump trucks, excavators, and backhoes—may be used by a contractor during the land clearing activities. 

Why Is ROW Clearing Important?

The primary purpose of ROW clearing is public safety. For instance, if limbs are too close to a row of power lines, a random spark could ignite a forest fire. Similarly, any vegetation that touches the lines can cause a temporary or long-term power outage. By maintaining clear access to the lines through tree removal and periodic vegetation cutting, problems can be addressed more quickly. In a colder climate like Alaska, the need for ROW clearing by an excavation contractor is even more important. Heavy snow or ice weighs down both the nearby trees and power lines, making the areas prone to potential outages. 

ROW clearing is a vital and overlooked process in keeping power to your home and community. Alaska Hydro Ax is the go-to excavation contractor in Anchorage, and their technicians are fully trained to perform safe land clearing activities. For questions on ROW clearing projects or general information, call them at (907) 243-6200, or visit them online.