100th nursery signs on to become Plant Smart

One hundred nurseries across regional Queensland are spreading the message of safe and sustainable tree management around powerlines.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson today met the owners of the 100^th nursery to sign on to Ergon Energy’s Plant Smart initiative – the Yarandoo Nursery in Rockhampton.

“Nurseries will tag and promote “powerline friendly” native trees and shrubs. It’s all part of a long term campaign to keep trees out of overhead powerlines,” Mr Wilson said.

Plant Smart is being run in partnership with Greening Australia Queensland to better manage vegetation around Ergon Energy’s electricity network.

“They’ve enlisted nurseries to help promote trees and shrubs that are safe to plant near powerlines,” he said.

“Vegetation around powerlines is a major challenge for Ergon Energy.

“Up to 30 per cent of Ergon Energy’s network operations costs goes towards vegetation management. It’s all about making sure the electricity supply is safe and secure.

“Under the Plant Smart program, people will have a much better idea of the types of trees and shrubs to plant around powerlines.

“Community groups, schools and local councils across the state will also be encouraged to help spread the message.”

With around 150,000 kilometres of powerlines across regional Queensland, Ergon Energy faces an ongoing challenge to keep trees out of powerlines.

“Trees around powerlines can deliver an electric shock or death. There’s also the risk of fires and damage to homes and businesses.

“When you also consider that around 11 per cent of power interruptions on Ergon Energy’s network last year were caused by vegetation interference of some kind, there are plenty of compelling arguments for Plant Smart,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819