MEA crews head to Mat-Su neighborhoods this summer for scheduled clearing

Matanuska Electric Association is working through multiple Mat-Su and northern Anchorage-area communities this summer, clearing rights-of-way as part of its 7-year vegetation management cycle. Crews are scheduled in Gateway, Wasilla, Palmer, Chugiak, Eklutna, Houston, and Big Lake. MEA's June 2026 member update notes that summer is one of the cooperative's busiest seasons and directs members to a full 2026 vegetation management schedule and map on the MEA website showing when and where crews will work in their neighborhood rights-of-way.

Herbicide application is also part of the 2026 program. MEA's vegetation management page says the cooperative planned to begin spraying select areas along the Knik Goose Bay corridor in April 2026. The utility frames all clearing as necessary for safe, reliable electric service. MEA's public materials provide limited detail on chemical types, buffer zones, or consultation with landowners and others who might be affected by right-of-way work.

A Gap in Disclosure

MEA's published materials do not spell out what notification process, if any, exists for adjacent landowners. They also don't describe formal opportunities for members to object to clearing or herbicide treatment in specific locations, according to the cooperative's posted program documents.

MEA serves more than 52,000 members from Eagle River to Trapper Creek and is headquartered in Palmer. It's a member-owned cooperative. MEA members elect seven of their own to staggered three-year terms on the Board of Directors, which sets company policy and hires and oversees the General Manager.

Danger Tree Program

Separate from the scheduled cycle work, MEA runs a year-round Danger Tree program. Members who have a hazardous tree near a power line can request clearing through MEA's Clearing Department at any time, regardless of where their neighborhood falls in the 7-year rotation.

Members who want to see the 2026 clearing schedule and map can find it at mea.coop. Those with questions about the Danger Tree program or right-of-way work near their property can contact MEA's Clearing Department directly.