ITC Midwest Helicopter Inspections Begin Soon Across IA, IL, & WI

Over the next few weeks, across the Tri-States, you may notice helicopter patrols examining our many power lines and transformer stations. These inspections are incredibly important when it comes to providing and maintaining a successful electric grid for area residents and businesses. So, where are these flights taking place and what exactly will they accomplish? Keep reading to see how ITC Midwest will be servicing its territory and how it could affect you.

From September 22nd through October 4th, ITC Midwest will be flying low-altitude helicopter patrols over transmission lines in the region (weather permitting). While the sight of a chopper hovering near power lines might feel unusual, it’s simply routine maintenance and nothing to be alarmed about. In fact, these patrols are a required part of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) vegetation management program, which helps ensure reliable electricity delivery and prevent outages.

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Here in the Tri-State area, flights will cover portions of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

Iowa

Benton (Vinton)
Black Hawk (Waterloo, Cedar Falls – nearby grid)
Buchanan (Independence)
Cedar (Tipton)
Clayton (Lansing – border area, Elkader nearby)
Clinton (Clinton, DeWitt)
Delaware (Manchester)
Dubuque (Dubuque, Asbury, Dyersville)
Fayette (West Union, Oelwein)
Grundy (Grundy Center)
Iowa (Marengo, Williamsburg)
Jackson (Bellevue, Maquoketa)
Johnson (Iowa City, North Liberty)
Jones (Anamosa, Monticello)
Linn (Cedar Rapids, Marion, Palo)
Marshall (Marshalltown)
Poweshiek (Grinnell, Brooklyn)
Tama (Tama, Dysart, Gladbrook)

Illinois

Carroll (Savanna, Mount Carroll)
Jo Daviess (Galena, Stockton)
Whiteside (Morrison, Fulton)

Wisconsin

Grant (Cassville, Lancaster)

So why does ITC Midwest conduct these flights? The patrols allow crews to closely examine transmission lines, poles, insulators, and surrounding vegetation. This process helps identify trees that could interfere with power lines, since overgrown vegetation is one of the leading causes of outages. By spotting potential problems early, ITC can act before small issues turn into big headaches for customers.

Essentially, these helicopter patrols are about keeping the grid strong, safe, and reliable for all area users. So, if you see one flying low near your community in the coming weeks, know that it’s part of the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the lights on across the Tri-States. By the way, the public can get involved and help keep our lines clear by submitting information on possible issues here.