Pepco customers in 31 areas of the District of Columbia, Montgomery and Prince George`s counties will see utility tree trimming crews clearing power lines during the next three months to help ensure safe, reliable electric service.

Pepco`s line-clearance program is designed to reduce the potential for power outages-especially during rain, wind and ice storms-that result when trees come into contact with the lines. When tree limbs contact live wires they can cause short circuits and often cause the limbs and wires to burn and fall to the ground.

Pepco was among 82 utilities designated as a Tree Line USA utility by the National Arbor Day Foundation. The designation recognizes utilities that maintain a quality tree care program, annual worker training in quality tree care practices and a tree planting and public education program.

"The commitment of these Tree Line USA utilities to protect community trees while providing reliable service not only helps to provide beautiful trees for the future, but also results in long-term operational savings for the utility," said John Rosenow, Arbor Day Foundation`s president.

Pepco crews trim for a minimum of two year`s clearance between tree branches and power lines. This year, the company will spend about $8 million to clear the lines.

For homeowners planning landscaping projects, this is a good time to make sure any plantings around their property avoid utility clearances. If homeowners want to landscape under or near lines, local nurseries can recommend varieties that won`t grow into the lines and avoid the need for trimming.

The tree-trimming crews under contract to Pepco from Asplundh, Inc. follow International Society of Arboriculture standards, which are designed to maintain the health of trees.

Pepco removes debris from private property that results from its line-clearance program.

In April, May and June, line-clearance crews will begin or continue work in the following areas:

District of Columbia-Tenleytown, Forest Hills, Bloomingdale, Eckington, Edgewood, Brentwood Village, Lincoln Park, Rosedale and Trinidad.

Montgomery County-West Rockville, Willows of Potomac, Potomac Highlands, South of Gaithersburg, White Flint, Garret Park, Stoney Brook, Rosewood, Sunset Terrace, Sligo Park Knolls, East Kensington, Forest Glen and Wheaton.

Prince George`s County-Rosaryville, Clinton Park, Clinton, Northeast College Park, Westphalia, Forestville, Townsend and Willow Creek.