In this episode, Nick interviews Steve, to discuss his 2025 UVM report calling for a transformation in how utilities manage vegetation near power infrastructure. With over four decades of experience shaping industry standards and investigating some of the most significant failures in North American grid reliability—including the 2003 Northeast Blackout—Cieslewicz outlines why traditional, reactive vegetation management is no longer viable. He makes a powerful case for proactive, data-driven strategies that not only prevent wildfires and outages but also address regulatory gaps, environmental justice, and rising utility costs.

Nick delves into his recommendations for integrating proven practices like Right Tree, Right Place (RTRP), Trees for Energy Conservation (TEC), and defensible space standards into utility operations. Listeners will hear how emerging technologies like AI, LiDAR, and satellite monitoring can revolutionize risk detection, and why cost equity must become a central focus of UVM reform. Whether you're a utility professional, regulator, or community stakeholder, this conversation sheds light on the urgent need to reimagine how we manage our energy landscapes—and why failure to act now could have catastrophic consequences.

The full report can be downloaded here.

A big thank you to the sponsor of this episode, Clear Path Utility Solutions, providing world-class construction management, vegetation management, emergency / non-emergency management, quality support and pre-inspections services to utility companies in North America.

In this episode, Nick and Steve are joined by Ben Silverman. Ben is a Program Director at E-Source, who is one of the founding members of the International Wildfire Risk Mitigation Consortium (IWRMC). They begin by discussing the mission of the IWRMC and the history behind its creation. Ben shares the structure they have established to ensure that their monthly conversations are collaborative and productive while navigating complex regulatory requirements. After sharing an overview of the four areas the IWRMC focuses on, Ben then gives a more in-depth look at how the group is looking at Vegetation Management. The conversation wraps up with a look forward to what is in store for the IWRMC and a look back at some of the group's accomplishments thus far.

If you are interested in joining IWRMC, you can contact Ben at ben_silverman@esource.com To find out more about IWRMC, visit https://www.esource.com/public/international-wildfire-risk-mitigation-consortium

In this episode of the UVM Podcast, hosts Nick and Steve sit down with Dennis Fallon, Executive Director of the Utility Arborist Association (UAA), to discuss the highly anticipated Trees & Utilities Conference. This year’s event will be held in Fort Worth, Texas, from September 10th to September 12th, and it’s shaping up to be one of the largest gatherings yet. Dennis shares his excitement about the record-breaking attendance expected this year and expresses his gratitude for the hard work behind the scenes that’s making this event possible.

The discussion highlights the many aspects that make Trees & Utilities the must-attend event in the industry, including valuable networking opportunities, the sold-out vendor showcase, and the highly anticipated Annual Awards Dinner. The hosts and Dennis agree that what truly sets this conference apart is the camaraderie and knowledge-sharing that takes place throughout the week. Nick also mentions that he’ll be putting on an Oktoberfest celebration with US and German colleagues at the conference, so be sure to find him for some pretzels and steins of beer!

As they talk about the Annual Awards Dinner, the conversation turns to a heartfelt tribute to Dan Marsh, a former Lifetime Achievement Award winner and industry legend, who sadly passed away last week. Dennis, Nick, and Steve reflect on Dan’s contributions to the field and remember him as a true professional and gentleman.

Finally, Dennis encourages all attendees to download the Conference App before the event and to provide feedback through the event survey to help the team continue delivering an exceptional experience year after year.

Later in the episode, Steve is joined by Brian Eubanks, a U.S. Navy veteran and active member of the UVM industry, to discuss Saluting Branches and their upcoming day of service. Saluting Branches is a nonprofit organization founded by arborists to honor and assist veterans by providing tree care services at national cemeteries and other veteran properties. This year’s annual event will take place on Wednesday, September 18th.

Brian shares the mission of Saluting Branches and explains why his role as the site leader for the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery is so meaningful to him. He emphasizes the importance of giving back to those who have served and encourages listeners to get involved.

For more information on how to participate in Saluting Branches, visit https://www.salutingbranches.org/

For more information on Trees and Utilities, visit https://www.treesandutilities.org/agenda.cfm.