Western Power have installed possum guards on some of its overhead network in the South-West to help protect critically endangered western ringtail possums.
Western ringtail possums are known to use the overhead power network to move from one habitat to another. This sometimes leads to contact with live lines and unfortunately possum death, as well as power outages.
To minimise these risks, Western Power has worked with the City of Busselton and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions on a joint initiative to safeguard possums and the network by installing fauna protection devices in areas of known possum habitat.
Western Power environment officer Michelle Davies said possum guards were not only cost-effective and easy to install but extremely effective in minimising possum interactions with the network benefitting the possum population, residents and Western Power.
"In the past, we have reactively installed possum guards to poles once an outage had been identified, however, now through working with DBCA and the local government we can identify high-density habitats that are significant for the species and install guards pre-emptively," she said.
"Through working with local government, we are also ensuring vegetation distances are maintained which is also critical in reducing possum access to powerlines from overhanging vegetation,
"This initiative aligns with Western Power's commitment to protecting the natural environment, deliver sustainable outcomes and conserve WA's unique biodiversity through appropriate planning and design of the grid,
"Having a sustainable approach to wildlife protection and working with government agencies and local government in achieving this is integral not only for conservation but ensuring a reliable power supply for our customers in regional communities. "
