Two bucket trucks and a digger derrick were sent to provide mutual assistance
(FARMINGTON, MN) October 17, 2024 – Dakota Electric Association recently sent six crew members with two bucket trucks and one digger derrick to support Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) in Dade City, Florida, with Hurricane Milton restoration efforts. Electric cooperatives in Florida reached out for mutual assistance before the storm hit to get teams staged for more efficient restoration.
Minnesota Rural Electric Association (MREA) worked closely with WREC and Dakota Electric’s Utility Services team to mobilize and stage crews before the hurricane made landfall. Dakota Electric mechanics were in contact with WREC regarding equipment needs and worked tirelessly to prepare the trucks and equipment for the long journey to Florida. In addition to the workforce and materials sent by Dakota Electric, Kandiyohi Power Cooperative in Spicer, MN, also sent crews, trucks and materials to assist.
“This is a perfect example of cooperation among cooperatives and concern for community – two of the seven Cooperative Principals,” said Ryan Hentges, President and CEO of Dakota Electric. “By working together, we can safely improve response times and deal more effectively with community needs. We sincerely wish all the folks impacted by Hurricane Milton a safe and fast recovery.”
Earlier this month, 18 of Minnesota’s electric cooperatives sent 80 lineworkers to help restore power after Hurricane Helene caused outages to more than 1.25 million cooperative members in the Southeastern United States.
“It’s times like these, when communities are in need, the cooperative difference really shines,” Hentges continued. “Lineworkers from co-ops around the country packed bags, loaded trucks and kissed family members goodbye as they sacrificed for the sake of others in need. Thank you to Luke, Kyle, Clay, Tim, Wyatt and Bryce who volunteered to help with the mutual aid efforts.”
About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 115,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.
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