This is a press release from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office.
UKIAH, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is surveying distribution power lines in the Ukiah and Hopland areas using helicopters equipped with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology.
Residents in southern Mendocino county may notice the helicopter patrols, as they fly at approximately 500 feet above the ground and follow overhead power lines. Patrols started last week and will end this Friday.
The surveys are to collect more data on PG&E’s power lines, poles and their surrounding environment in high-fire threat areas. The LiDAR helicopter surveys will help gather data for PG&E’s mapping system by capturing imagery that can be analyzed to take measurements, reveal patterns and identify any potential risks.
The asset management work involves meeting and exceeding state fire safety standards for power lines during extreme weather conditions.
Helicopters equipped with LiDAR technology, most likely a Bell 206, will arrive and depart the Ukiah Municipal Airport and the Red Bluff Airport. Flights are between 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. weekdays.
