Spanning the Gaps: Integrating Site, Stakeholders, and Context to Enhance Vegetation Management at Seattle City Light

Abstract

Management of vegetation on transmission line right of ways depends on a multitude of factors. Vegetation managers must respond not only to the physical parameters of a site - such as topography and line height - but also they must maintain good relationships with easement property owners and other stakeholders throughout the length of a transmission corridor. Socio-ecological context surrounding a transmission right of way further complicates the situation, as a range of habitats and human uses may occur beneath a utility's transmission lines. Seattle City Light owns and manages many miles of transmission right of ways within Seattle and leading up to the Skagit Hydroelectric Project in the North Cascades. Vegetation managers at the large public utility implement management strategies that respond to the many stakeholders along City Light's transmission corridors. This thesis explores the latest efforts of Seattle City Light to maximize multi-functionality on the transmission right of way while minimizing long term monetary and non-monetary costs. A series of case studies - viewed from the perspective of a Seattle City Light intern - spanning the urban-to-rural gradient illustrate the array of stakeholders City Light hopes to engage to initiate collaborative vegetation management strategies. Conclusions are drawn by way of reflection on the case studies investigated, and recommendations are made for future efforts in vegetation management at Seattle City Light.