Sunfish Lake eNews

March 22, 2026

Hi Neighbors,

We have received notice that Xcel Energy will be testing wooden electric utility poles in Minnesota from mid-March thru October of this year as part of their pole maintenance program.  This will include both distribution and transmission poles.  This testing will be quite visible in communities over the next several months, and we want you to be aware of what’s going on in case you encounter any issues. Below, you'll find more details about the process and what to expect. Please feel free to share this information with others. 

In 2026, Xcel expects to test over 85,000 poles across their service territory in Minnesota.

Their contract crews may excavate around each pole by hand-digging approximately 18 inches around the entire circumference of the pole base to check for damage or defects at groundline.  In addition, crews will sound the pole with a hammer (which can identify internal damage to the pole), and drill small inspection holes in the pole to check for internal damage. They will also be checking the general safety of the overhead equipment on the pole.  Xcel’s contractors, Davey Resource Group and Osmose will be performing this work.  All excavations will be backfilled in accordance with Xcel Energy’s site restoration criteria and all borings in the poles will be plugged before the crews leave the property.  After Davey and Osmose have inspected and tested the poles, the results may indicate a pole replacement is needed. If repairs or replacements are required, an Xcel Energy crew or contractor will return to coordinate and perform the necessary work. 

For distribution pole testing, Xcel has indicated affected customers will receive an automated phone notification one to two weeks prior to work beginning in their area. Xcel will notify city staff at the same time.  Customers with questions will be directed to Xcel’s customer service line at 1‑800‑895‑4999. Xcel’s customer service team will forward any inquiries or concerns to their Pole Integrity staff, who Xcel has indicated will then follow up directly with the customer. For properties where access is difficult, Xcel has indicated crews will leave door cards requesting that the property owner contact them to arrange access. 

For transmission pole testing, Xcel has indicated postcards will be mailed to all adjacent property owners along the transmission corridor at the start of the project. Testing for both distribution and transmission poles is expected to begin in mid‑March and continue through October.  

If residents have questions about the pole maintenance program, please contact Xcel Energy’s Customer Contact Center at (800) 895-4999.  All Xcel Energy employees and contractors have vehicles that include the Xcel Energy logo and carry photo identification verifying they are Xcel Energy employees or contractors. 

I hope all are looking forward to a wonderful Spring!

Warmest regards,

Mayor Dan

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