New forestry manager

New Powerco Forestry Manager Nick Catton has first-hand experience of climbing and cutting trees near power lines thanks to his background as a utilities arborist and machine operator in the forestry industry. He has brought this experience, as well as work as a civil contractor, to his new role of Forestry Manager at Powerco.

“With the growth in forestry and increased carbon planting across Aotearoa New Zealand it was time to have a dedicated person to work proactively with forestry owners and managers,” says Powerco Senior Vegetation Manager Colin Winch.

Nick is based in Masterton and is responsible for forestry across the Powerco network, which includes Western Bay of Plenty, Thames, Coromandel, Eastern and Southern Waikato, Taranaki, Whanganui, Rangitīkei, Manawatū and the Wairarapa.

“By developing relationships and getting in early on new forest plantings and harvest we can work together to minimise faults to our network while helping forestry owners keep their costs and risks to a minimum,” says Nick Catton.

The growth of carbon forests, particularly in the western footprint of the Powerco network is also keeping Nick busy.

“There are a range of strategies from plant selection to planting plans to create power line corridors to help mitigate the potential impacts of these forests on our electricity network,” says Nick Catton.

Falling trees and branches in forestry blocks contribute to a significant number of faults on the Powerco network.

“Trees grow exceptionally well in New Zealand, and with a bit of upfront planning and consideration around harvest we can get the best for all parties and keep the lights on for our customers,” says Nick Catton.

For more information about planting and harvesting forests near power lines see our new forestry web page.