National Grid reminds off-road drivers that utility rights-of-way are private property where unauthorized dumping and trespass by motorized vehicles is unlawful. These rights-of-way are a critical part of the company’s electric and gas network. Limiting activities within the corridors protects the public, avoids damage to company facilities and supports the reliability of electric and gas service. In addition, limiting activities reduces inconvenience and disturbances to rights-of-way neighbors.

National Grid maintains access roads to and along rights-of-way to maintain and repair existing facilities in accordance with State and Federal regulations and for the construction of new facilities for use by authorized personnel only. Rights-of-way should not be used without the permission of National Grid.

“These corridors are strictly for authorized National Grid personnel familiar with the facilities and terrain,” said Chad Martin, director of Safety for National Grid. “Dumping of waste and access by off-road vehicles is damaging to the rights-of-way and creates safety hazards for utility personnel and other authorized users.”

Unauthorized vehicular use and other forms of trespass also can cause damage to wetlands, streams, and wildlife habitats that occur on many of National Grid’s rights-of-way. Violators may be subject to enforcement actions by Federal and state environmental protection agencies.

“National Grid’s number one priority is to ensure the safety of our customers, employees, and the communities we serve,” said Chad Martin. “With summer approaching and more activities outdoors we are reminding the public that rights-of-way are private property and to be aware of the safety hazards around our network. National Grid partners with local authorities to help ensure safety by protecting the rights-of-way from unauthorized use and provides local law enforcement with its full cooperation in prosecuting any trespassers up to and including arrest.”

About National Grid

National Grid is an electricity and gas company that connects consumers to energy sources through its networks. The company is at the heart of one of the greatest challenges facing our society – to create new, sustainable energy solutions for the future and developing an energy system that underpins economic prosperity in the 21st century. National Grid holds a vital position at the center of the energy system and it ‘joins everything up.’

In the northeast U.S., we connect more than seven million gas and electric customers to vital energy sources, essential for our modern lifestyles. In Great Britain, we run the gas and electricity systems that our society is built on, delivering gas and electricity across the country.

National Grid delivers electricity to approximately 3.3 million customers in Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island.

For more information visit its website www.nationalgridus.com.