Use of GIS land classification techniques and satellite imagery can produce low cost inventory of vegetation under and adjacent to power lines. These spatial vegetation shape files can be deployed within mobile software applications for utility planners and tree crews to plan, execute and report work. Converting existing paper work processes to GIS electronic processes provides benefits to the utility, the line clearing contractor and to electric customers.

Tabular data from the vegetation spatial shape files and work status reporting from tree crews can produce near real time workload and cost forecasting reports, vendor performance reports, customize outreach to external customers and publish a web maps showing areas recently trimmed and areas scheduled to be trimmed. Using GIS tools and imagery to measure linear feet with no vegetation creates work density measures to better measure and manage program effectiveness. For example, measuring the linear feet of Right Tree Right Place plantings within a local government can recognize and reward best planting practices.

Presentation will cover 2013 proof of concept pilot to validate satellite imagery as an accurate tool to measure vegetation, results of 2014 beta test to operationalize Satellite Unit Prescription process for planned maintenance work and 2015 capital investment to expand use of this technology.