Dear Members:
In the cooperative world, we have a truism that says, “Good cooperatives have great boards.”
This year, Districts 6 and 7 are up for election. District 6 (vacant) covers the Grizzly Road area, Lake Davis, the north side of Portola, the north of Hwy 70 from Portola to Blairsden, along with the southern and western part of Plumas-Eureka Estates. The Plumas-Sierra REC Board of Directors has asked for applications from interested members to serve the remaining term for District 6 until the annual meeting.
District 7 (Nancy Miller) covers Highway 395 starting at Lassen County road A-26 and all members west of A-26 and all members north of the intersection of A-25 and 395.
The board meets once a month, usually on the fourth Wednesday. Directors must complete training to stay current on issues and become certified directors.
To check which district you live in, visit the Service Area. If you live in one of these districts and are interested in running for the board, call 530-832-6060 for more information. Let us know as soon as possible if you are interested in serving on the board for either district. A Nominating Committee meets in late May or early June. The deadline for nomination by petition is in July.
Reducing the Risk of Wildfire
Gone are the days when wildfires were primarily confined to the western United States. Rising temperatures, prolonged drought, and shifting weather patterns are creating dangerous conditions in places that historically experienced few major fires.
At PSREC, protecting our members and the communities we serve is our highest priority. As we recognize National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, I want you to know wildfire mitigation is not seasonal work for us. It is a year-round commitment embedded in how we operate and invest in our local system.
One of the most important ways we reduce wildfire threats is through our comprehensive vegetation management program. Overgrown trees and power lines are a dangerous combination, particularly during dry and windy conditions. Throughout the year, PSREC crews—along with our trusted local contractors— proactively trim and remove vegetation that could come into contact with power lines and other critical infrastructure. This work requires careful planning, coordination with property owners, and ongoing inspection. While it may not always be visible, it is one of the most effective tools we have to prevent fire ignition and maintain reliable electricity.
In addition to boots on the ground, PSREC is leveraging advanced technology to strengthen our system. We utilize drones for line inspections as well as system analytics that allow us to detect abnormal conditions and respond quickly. By investing in these modern technologies, we are shifting from reactive repairs to proactive prevention, identifying risks early and addressing them before they become emergencies.
- Properly extinguish fires by dousing them with water, stirring the ashes, and ensuring they are cool to the touch before leaving the area.
- Avoid outdoor burning on windy or excessively dry days.
- Maintain a defensible space around your home by clearing dry leaves, dead branches, and other flammable debris.
- Use lawn equipment carefully, particularly during hot conditions, and always check local regulations for burn bans or restrictions.
Wildfires are becoming more complex and more widespread, but through proactive system management, smart investments, sound policy, and community partnership, we can reduce risks and strengthen resilience.
We take this responsibility seriously. Our members depend on us not only for reliable power, but for leadership in safeguarding the communities we call home.
May is Electrical Safety Month
At Plumas-Sierra REC, we recognize Electrical Safety Month every May, but we also know the importance of practicing safety year-round. From our co-op crews to you, the members we serve, everyone has a part to play in prioritizing safety.
Electricity is a necessity, and it powers our daily lives. But we know firsthand how dangerous electricity can be because we work with it 365 days a year. Call (530) 832-4261 or visit the Safety Tips page for additional electrical safety tips.
As we enter spring, we know members are eager to begin yard projects. Be sure to call 811 before you dig to have utility lines marked.
Tell the operator where you plan to dig and what type of work you are doing. The affected local utilities will send locators to your property, free of charge. Once utility lines are marked, you can dig safely without causing damage.
As the irrigation season approaches, we remind members to look up. Whether cutting trees, working with irrigation pipes, or using other long objects, make sure you avoid power lines.
Telecommunications
Due to a mild winter this year, our crews have made significant progress on building our fiber network. Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications crews and contractors have also been busy in the Loyalton Pines and Sierra Brooks areas. Call (530) 832-4126 to check your home’s eligibility and potential installation costs, as well as to be placed on our waitlist.
Additionally, PST has installed new wireless systems in Red Rock and Chilcoot and is in the process of upgrading the Cat Cut access point in Honey Lake Valley. If you are interested in signing up for service, call PST at (530) 832-4126 to schedule your installation.
If you are searching for internet service or wondering if you should make a long-term commitment with another provider, check with us first. We hear repeatedly that if people knew our services were about to arrive, they wouldn’t have signed a different provider’s long-term contract.
If you have questions, contact me by phone at (530) 832-4261 extension 6076 or by emailing Bob Marshall.
Sincerely,
Bob Marshall
General Manager