Reducing the risk of utility-caused wildfire plays an essential role in Skamania PUD’s operational practices. Its existing policies, programs, and procedures, as well as the incorporation of emerging technologies, are intended to directly or indirectly manage or reduce the risk of its utility infrastructure becoming the origin or contributing factor for wildfire.
Skamania PUD believes the strategies and activities described in this WMP, with associated goals and metrics, are a practical approach to reducing fire-related risk for the PUD’s customers in the near term and will allow for refinement and improvement over time. As the PUD gains experience implementing the WMP’s mitigation programs and new information emerges, the PUD will assess, evaluate, enhance, and refine its practices.
The WMP describes vegetation management, asset inspection and maintenance, recloser setting protocols, restoration of service processes, and community outreach efforts. Additionally, it spells out plan ownership, performance metrics, deficiency identification, and the plan’s audit and approval process. It also addresses the unique features of Skamania PUD’s service area, such as topography, weather, infrastructure, grid configuration, and potential wildfire risks.