Hopkinsville Electric System offers to its customers a tree 
replacement program. This program applies only to trees that have grown into and interfere with the primary power lines between utility poles. If a customer allows HES to cut down such a tree, HES will then plant in its place a flowering ornamental tree. This new tree will have a small enough mature height so as not to interfere with the power lines. This eliminates the need for HES crews to routinely trim the tree and also allows the customer to have an attractive tree that can grow and develop to maturity.
The guidelines under which this program will operate are as follows:
When a customer agrees to a tree replacement, an agreement will be signed. HES will then cut and remove the old tree. The replacement tree will only be planted certain times of the year, approximately November 1 thru May 1, to assure the best possible planting conditions. The replacement tree will be planted in the general vicinity of the tree cut down. The tree will be guaranteed to be alive and produce leaves the spring after planting. The tree then becomes the responsibility of the customer. If it is evident that there has been lack of care of the tree, no replant will be given.
Customer may choose one of the following types of tree:
- Pink Dogwood
- Redbud
- White Dogwood
- Purple-leaf Plum
- Crab Apple
- Dwarf Fruit Tree
HES will choose the nursery to provide the trees and planting. This selection will be based upon price and quality of product and service.
HES will provide a tree per tree replacement if the cut down tree is located in a yard. For trees along a pasture or field, HES will provide one tree for every five to six trees cut down.
HES recognizes that many variables can be encountered when applying this program. HES management reserves the right to have the final determination as to the proper application of the program.
If you believe you have a tree that qualifies for the Trade-a-Tree program, call 270-887-4219.