The postcard from Madison Gas and Electric is pretty clear. Headlined "Tree-Trimming Notice," it informs homeowners that the utility "will be trimming trees near our power lines in your neighborhood in 2010 to minimize tree-related storm damage and electrical outages." It says further notice will be given "approximately two weeks prior to actual trimming."
Just one thing: This postcard was recently sent even to homeowners on streets that have no above-ground power lines, and hence no need for MGE to come after their trees.
MGE spokesman Steve Kraus calls it a "blanket mailing" that goes out anytime work is planned. "Everybody in an area has to be notified," he says, even those not affected.
