MEA is taking to the skies to enhance reliability and improve vegetation management across our service area. Our new drone program uses high-resolution imaging and LiDAR technology to efficiently map areas where trees and vegetation may encroach on power lines. This innovative approach allows us to better plan easement clearing, reduce outage risks, and keep our crews and members safe. The data collected is strictly limited to MEA rights-of-way and easements—we are not capturing images of homes or personal property. Rest assured, all drone operations are conducted by FAA-licensed pilots following strict safety and privacy protocols. By identifying problem areas before they cause outages, MEA can reduce inspection time, optimize clearing schedules, and deliver more reliable service to our members.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is MEA using drones for vegetation management?
MEA is using drone technology to efficiently and safely identify areas where trees and vegetation may pose a risk to power lines. This helps us prevent outages, improve reliability, and plan more effective vegetation clearing across our service area.

Q: Will MEA drones be taking pictures of my home or private property?
No. MEA drones only collect data within utility rights-of-way and easements. We are not capturing imagery of homes or personal property, and all drone flights follow strict privacy and safety guidelines.

Q: Who operates the drones, and are they licensed?
All drone operations are conducted by FAA-licensed pilots who follow federal regulations and MEA’s internal safety and privacy protocols to ensure responsible and secure data collection.

Q: How will this drone program benefit MEA members?
The drone program allows MEA to detect vegetation risks earlier, reduce easement assessment times, and better schedule easement clearing. This proactive approach results in fewer outages, quicker response times, and safer conditions for both our members and crews.

Q: Who is piloting the drones, and what should I expect to see at the flight site?
‍All drones are flown by FAA-certified pilots employed or contracted by MEA. You can expect them to be wearing high‑visibility safety gear—such as vests or bright-colored jackets—and operating from an MEA-branded vehicle. This ensures clear identification and safe, professional operations.

Q: I saw someone operating a drone near a power line—should I approach them to ask questions?
‍We kindly ask that members do not approach or disturb drone operators while they are actively flying. Operating a drone, especially near utility infrastructure, requires full concentration for safety and precision. If you have questions about the program, please visit our website or contact MEA Member Services (907) 761-9300.

‍