As summer arrives in Northeast Ohio, the combination of warm temperatures and frequent rainfall encourages rapid plant growth. However, not all plant growth is beneficial for the environment or electrical systems. Invasive species such as Callery Pear, Multiflora Rose, garlic mustard, Japanese knotweed, and honeysuckle pose significant challenges to ecosystems and access to electrical equipment by overpowering native species and altering habitats.
To address these issues, FirstEnergy's Green Teams—composed of employee volunteers dedicated to environmental initiatives—actively work to manage these invasive plants in communities served by the company.
“Summer is when some invasive species grow the fastest and strongest,” explained Jessica Shaffer, Advanced Scientist at FirstEnergy. “Invasive plants don’t just threaten biodiversity – they can also complicate routine maintenance and power restoration within FirstEnergy’s service territory.”
Recently, FirstEnergy's Ohio Green Team engaged in efforts at Cleveland Metroparks’ Euclid Creek Reservation. Volunteers spent time removing invasive plants manually, trimming overgrowth, and clearing debris.
Invasive species often spread rapidly due to a lack of natural predators. They negatively impact soil quality, reduce biodiversity, and increase erosion risks near waterways.
FirstEnergy’s Vegetation Management teams play a crucial role in ensuring reliable electric service by controlling plant growth around power lines and equipment. This helps prevent interference with essential energy infrastructure.
“When volunteers and community organizations help clear out aggressive plants early, we reduce the risk of overgrowth in the right of way near our equipment down the line. It’s a proactive approach that supports both environmental health and the long-term reliability of our electric system,” said Tyler Woody, Forestry Manager at FirstEnergy.
Community involvement is encouraged through education on identifying invasive species and opting for native plants that support local wildlife while requiring less upkeep.
FirstEnergy extends its sustainability efforts beyond removal by restoring cleared areas with native species planting. For instance, this spring saw employees planting wildflowers and shrubs at Camp Mountaineer in Morgantown, West Virginia after a local Boy Scouts troop removed invasive plants.
Further information about FirstEnergy’s environmental initiatives aimed at fostering a sustainable future can be found on their website.