Crews from East River Electric Power Cooperative are supporting Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO) in the aftermath of a severe storm that caused significant damage to the region’s electrical infrastructure. East River Electric received a call Wednesday, March 19, requesting storm assistance and the cooperative quickly responded by organizing a team of linemen as well as specialized equipment to support restoration efforts.
An eight-person crew, including Travis Rude (crew foreman), Ryan Himley, Jordan Kisor, Erik Nesheim, Ethan Krier, Jace Jones, Cory Schwinger, and Eli Fanning will join their Iowa counterparts, as well as other co-ops providing mutual aid in Salix, Iowa, just south of Sioux City and plan for up to two weeks of work to restore the damaged infrastructure.
“Our neighbors at NIPCO have always been there for us, and we are proud to return that support in their time of need,” said East River Electric CEO and General Manager Bob Sahr. “I cannot thank our employees enough for their willingness to step up on short notice. This reflects the cooperative spirit of mutual aid and a united commitment to community.”
The conditions awaiting the crew are challenging. The storm has left poles downed and the river bottom area they will be working in is muddy and difficult to navigate, but they will do whatever is needed to help get systems up and running again while ensuring that safety remains a top priority.
Cooperation among cooperatives is one of the principles that guide East River Electric. By stepping up and providing mutual aid, East River employees can assist in recovery efforts, helping NIPCO’s members regain power as quickly and safely as possible.
