Vegetation management on power-line right-of-way with emphasis on the lower mainland of British Columbia

The concept of vegetation succession was discussed, the conclusion being reached that while there may be general trend towards a succession of vegetation types on similar sites within any region, there are likely to be differences between sites. This was confirmed through a study of the literature on vegetation succession in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and in other parts of the humid zone of the Pacific Northwest Region, in which both the mature forest and current succession trends were considered. The use of herbicides was considered, and in particular any possible hazards associated with them. The danger to any animal life seems to be slifht, but there may be unknown drawbacks to their use. They can damage the ground cover which protects lopes from erosion. The details of power- line clearing and maintenance methods used by B.C. Hydro and Power Authority were described. It seems to be most i~portant that the correct concentrations of herbicide and techniques of application be used in practice. Alternatives to blanket spraying were considered. Near towns a variety of land uses may be possible. The stabilization of an inoffensive ground cover, by "replacement control" is considered and some shrub species potentially useful for this purpose are suggested. While new power generating schemes continue to be built, and while land for most purposes continues to become scarcer in most populated areas, the management of power-line rightsof- way will remain an interesting question.