The events of the past several days have been deeply devastating for our communities. We are grateful for the extraordinary efforts of the emergency responders and agencies who have worked tirelessly to protect lives and property. On behalf of Cooperative Light & Power, our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the wildfire.

As a member-owned electric cooperative, we understand the significant impact events like this have on our members, neighboring communities, and local businesses. The safety of our members, communities, and employees remains our highest priority.

We are aware of reports regarding the potential cause of the wildfire, including information indicating that a fallen tree outside of the maintained right-of-way may have come into contact with a power line. Cooperative Light & Power is continuing to cooperate fully with local authorities and emergency response agencies as they assess and review the circumstances surrounding this incident. At this time, that review remains ongoing.

This event underscores the importance of continued investment in wildfire mitigation, vegetation management, and system resiliency. Cooperative Light & Power maintains more than 1,000 miles of electric line across northeastern Minnesota, including 541 miles of overhead line running through heavily wooded and rural terrain. Maintaining safe and reliable service across terrain like this requires careful planning, sustained investment, and ongoing maintenance efforts.

We remain committed to strengthening our system through proactive measures, including right-of-way maintenance, hazard tree management, and infrastructure improvements where feasible, including undergrounding in appropriate locations. These efforts are an important part of reducing risk, improving reliability, and serving our members responsibly.

We appreciate the patience, resilience, and support shown by our members, local communities, emergency responders, and partner agencies during this difficult time. Cooperative Light & Power remains committed to safety above all else, as well as proactive system maintenance, thoughtful planning, and continued investment in the long-term safety and reliability of the electric system.