Osmose Utility Services, a contractor for JCE, will conduct the co-op's annual utility pole inspection and treatment program starting Sept. 25. Osmose will have two or three crews working in JCE's northern service territory through November.

Osmose crews will carry an introduction letter from JCE, and have been instructed to contact members before entering their property. Osmose also has been instructed to avoid rural areas during shotgun deer hunting season.

Utility pole inspections are part of the co-op's routine maintenance. JCE inspects approximately 10 percent of its utility poles annually. To perform the inspection, crews dig-up ground around the pole to look for rot and insect damage. When needed, they will apply a treatment to the pole to extend its life.

Osmose also inspects for mechanical damage, loose hardware, rotten or damaged cross arms and other maintenance issues. Osmose will install guy guards and repair pole grounds where appropriate.

Pole maintenance extends the lifespan of the co-op's utility poles and reduces long-term costs to maintain the utility plant.