Vegetation management
During the construction of a transmission line, it may be necessary to clear or disturb vegetation. Depending on circumstances of the new infrastructure, vegetation may be able to regenerate under transmission lines depending on species.
Permanent vegetation clearing: Permanent clearing of vegetation may be undertaken in areas close to the transmission line in order to enable construction and to provide access.
Access tracks: In an area where there is no existing access to a structure, an initial four-metre-wide access track will typically be created to enable large vehicles to access the site. Where an access track already exists but is less than four metres in width, the existing track may be widened.
Temporary vegetation disturbance: Temporary disturbance or clearing of vegetation along the transmission line route is required in order to carry out construction activities. After construction, vegetation will be allowed to regenerate in areas not occupied by equipment and not requiring permanent access.
Vegetation clearing for safety: To ensure that transmission lines operate in a safe and secure manner, and to assist in preventing bush fires, sufficient clearances must be maintained between vegetation and live electrical conductors (wires). This is achieved through both the initial clearing of taller vegetation and ongoing vegetation management. Generally species that grow no higher than three metres are retained within the corridor. The width of the corridor is determined by the type of powerline. Vegetation removed is often mulched and spread within the corridor but other methods of disposal or utilisation of the product may also be undertaken in agreement with the landowners.
