Ozarks Electric Line Crews Dispatched to Aid Power Restoration in Louisiana
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Ozarks Electric Cooperative deployed crews and equipment to Beauregard Electric Cooperative of DeRidder, La. today to assist in restoring power in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. Beauregard reports that less than 100 meters of its 42,962 meters are in service in the wake of this devastating storm.
Along with 22 employees, Ozarks sent resources including 2 digger derrick trucks, 1 flex track digger derrick, 5 bucket trucks, 2 side-by-side UTV’s and 1 skid-steer. The workers will be in Louisiana for 10 to 14 days, helping to clear rights of way and repairing and replacing damaged poles and power lines.
“Our people understand the hardship that such widespread damage causes. They are willing to spend time away from their homes and families, often in less desirable living conditions, to help fellow lineworkers get the lights back on,” said Mitchell Johnson, President and CEO of Ozarks Electric Cooperative. “The majority of the power delivery system in southwest Louisiana will have to be rebuilt. Having experienced workers and equipment available to send will help Beauregard with the aid they need to restore everyday life as quickly as possible.”
Ozarks Electric is joined by personnel from 9 other electric cooperative from around the state in power restoration efforts in Louisiana.
Ozarks Electric, incorporated in 1938, is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative, providing retail electric service to more than 77,000 meters across nine counties in Northwest Arkansas and Northeast Oklahoma. For more information about Ozarks Electric, visit the cooperative’s website at www.ozarksecc.com.