Nicole Viz helps members save money and keep the lights on through smart demand response programs. Excited about the future of battery technology, she works closely with members to turn small, low‑impact energy shifts into big benefits for their communities.
In the rugged terrain of northern New Mexico, keeping trees and plants away from power lines is a critical part of protecting electric reliability and reducing wildfire risk, especially along the transmission corridors in Carson National Forest.
Welcome to The People Behind the Power™, where we showcase the extraordinary work Tri-State employees are doing to keep the lights on for nearly 1 million energy consumers in the rural West. This series pulls back the curtain to share the real stories of the individuals whose dedication powers our communities. Because when you meet the people behind the power, you see the heart, talent, and perseverance that goes into every flip of a switch.
In rural America, nearly two-thirds of firefighters are volunteers, and they’re often the first line of defense when wildfires ignite. But as fire seasons grow longer and more intense across the West, these departments face mounting challenges. That’s why Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association is partnering with San Isabel Electric Association (SIEA) to deliver superior technology and training to fighting fires, because the best wildfire response begins before the flames appear.
Welcome to The People Behind the Power™, where we showcase the extraordinary work Tri-State employees are doing to keep the lights on for nearly 1 million energy consumers in the rural West. This series pulls back the curtain to share the real stories of the individuals whose dedication powers our communities. Because when you meet the people behind the power, you see the heart, talent, and perseverance that goes into every flip of a switch.
Wildfires leave lasting scars on rural communities—something our cooperatives know all too well. During the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, Tri-State member Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative (MSMEC) sprang into action, exemplifying how cooperatives become vital to emergency response and recovery. Their crews, many personally affected by the devastation, worked side by side to rebuild, protect, and restore. This story highlights not only the destruction wildfires bring, but the resilience of these communities and the unwavering commitment of lineworkers, contractors, and support teams who help them rise again.
Vegetation management plays a vital role in wildfire mitigation, especially across the rugged landscapes of southern New Mexico. For Tri-State member Otero County Electric Cooperative (OCEC), a pivotal moment came when they acquired both the workforce and equipment from their longtime vegetation management contractor, owned by a former Otero lineworker with deep local knowledge. This transition allowed OCEC to retain a highly skilled team, enabling the cooperative to craft a more effective, locally attuned vegetation strategy that benefits everyone.
Rather than waiting for disaster to strike, High Plains Power took decisive action—backed by years of wildfire mitigation planning in the Horse Creek area of the Wind River Ranger District. This forward-thinking initiative was made possible through close collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and local stakeholders, combining expertise, resources, and insight. The result? A project that not only fortifies the region’s electric infrastructure but also protects the livelihoods of those who live, work, and depend on reliable power.
Wildfires are no longer seasonal—they’re a constant concern. While prevention remains critical, homeowners also have the power to safeguard their properties and communities. This blog explores practical steps anyone can take, from grasping the concept of the wildland-urban interface to creating defensible space and reinforcing homes through hardening and retrofitting. With the right knowledge and action, wildfire mitigation becomes a shared responsibility.
Discover how to make your summer backpacking adventures better with solar-powered gear and energy-efficient planning. Explore seven scenic trails across Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Wyoming, and learn how to pack light and stay safe. From solar chargers to GPS trackers, this guide helps you harness the sun’s energy while enjoying the great outdoors.
