Rural Power cooperatives, like Wolverine, understand that to serve our members, our lineworkers and project teams often encounter situations, locations, and terrain that urban energy suppliers don’t. The Cheboygan to Tower project, that kicked off in 2022, looks to rebuild approximately 22 miles of transmission lines in Cheboygan County. By replacing aging infrastructure dating back to the early 1950s with sturdy steel poles that adhere to the 138 kV construction standards, Wolverine is committing to improving electric reliability of the greater transmission grid, including service to distribution co-ops and their members.

“This project means continuing to serve our members with the most reliable power, even as demand continues to rise,” said Jeff Staten, Transmission Engineer and project manager. “Each mile rebuilt is a mile with less potential for fault or failure, and less potential for having to quickly mobilize crews for repairs.”

However, working in remote areas poses unique challenges that require careful planning and innovative solutions.

Challenges in Swampy Environments and Access Roads

The Cheboygan to Tower project encountered swampy environments which posed a challenge in getting vehicles and equipment to the work sites. This meant basically building access roads using hardwood timber mats. These mats, resembling railroad ties, are expensive to acquire, transport, and place. And their durability in submerged conditions can be unpredictable. The distance between navigable roads intersecting the right-of-way (ROW) presented a real challenge, requiring the hauling of mats for miles and using tracked equipment for placement.

Planning and Reacting to Challenges

Overcoming these challenges involves thorough field assessments and reviewing proposed structure locations. The planning process requires predicting the number of mats required, considering both linear feet and depth. This is a critical part of assessing annual infrastructure projects. But Wolverine is always looking ahead for improvement ideas and potential solutions.

“A recent development is working with the DNR to utilize sections of the North Eastern State Trail that parallels our ROW,” said Staten. “While a plan had not been approved in time for the Cheboygan to Tower project, it is shaping up to be very beneficial in terms of budget and schedule for the succeeding line section (Posen to Tower). In addition, the DNR and trail users will benefit from an improved trail surface.”

Difficulties of Working in Remote or Rural Areas

Working in remote areas presents unique difficulties like extreme terrain, making access difficult for both line and tree crews. Contacting landowners in remote areas can also be challenging, resulting in a level of surprise when work commences. Additionally, certain areas are inaccessible on foot, requiring specialized equipment for access. Finally, placing optical ground wire (OPGW) splice points in easily accessible locations poses challenges in remote areas, often necessitating non-standard reel lengths or compromising ideal access points.

A Mindset of Collaboration and Resilience

The Cheboygan to Tower project and similar undertakings require a cohesive and resilient mindset. Despite unforeseen challenges, the teams at Wolverine, including engineering, land management, construction management, operations, and construction crews, demonstrate a shared commitment to finding solutions as they take on the ambitious task of rebuilding transmission lines. Rather than becoming frustrated by obstacles, these professionals work together to overcome difficulties, ensuring the project progresses toward its common goal.

“We’re fortunate to have an outstanding group – not only in terms of work experience and knowledge, but also in strong personal character and community commitment” said Jon Johnson, Vice President of Engineering & Technical Services. “It’s not just about what we can do as a company, but what each person brings to the table while we’re doing it.”