Keeping Calm When Things Go Wrong All-of-the-Above Strategy Meets Demand
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Lake Region Electric April 2019 Vol. 19 No. 12
Keeping Calm
When Things
Go Wrong
Page 8
All-of-the-
Above Strategy
Meets Demand
Page 12
MANAGER’S COLUMN
Spring Brings Construction
I’m writing this article with the snow still piled up taller than we have seen in the past couple years.
The snow is still falling almost every day, but the calendar says SPRING is on its way. When Mother
Nature allows, LREA will begin working on an intense construction season.
Certain areas have already been earmarked for the 2019 construction season. These areas were
selected to maintain reliability as some of the line that will be worked on is LREA’s original infra-
structure.
Crews will start working in the northern portion of LREA’s service territory between Britton and
Sisseton. Some of the construction in this area is to move lines to accommodate for East River Elec-
tric’s – LREA’s transmission provider – new transmission line.
Following the northern construction, crews will move south to the Pickerel Lake area. A mile of
Tim McIntyre overhead line will be converted to underground. This line was damaged in the 2016 Christmas ice
storm. In this same area, crews will work to reroute approximately five miles of line to have more
General Manager
members on newer underground line.
tmcintyre@lakeregion.coop
Crews will continue to move south and work near Webster to reroute a stretch of three-phase and
single-phase lines. As time allows, crews could end their construction season back up north near
As a member- Clear Lake to install new underground line.
The Line Department has an extensive construction workload for this season and will work safely
owner you have and diligently to complete the work.
a voice in the LREA plans the construction season with you, our member-owner, in mind. As we continue to grow
governance of with you, we strive to provide safe and reliable electricity for your everyday living, future needs and
overall lifestyle.
your electric One last thing, I want to remind you to mark your calendar and plan to attend your 78th annual
cooperative and meeting on June 6, 2019, in Britton, S.D. As a member-owner, you have a voice in the governance of
your electric cooperative and attending the annual meeting is one way to get involved. The construc-
attending the tion season, rate adjustments, director election and more will be part of LREA’s annual meeting.
annual meeting We are here to serve you, our member-owners, and look forward to growing with you to provide the
is one way to highest quality services and products to fit your lifestyle.
get involved. Have a safe month and God Bless!
Tim McIntyre
2 Cooperative Connections | April 2019
CO-OP NEWS
Lake Region
Electric Bludorn Named Touchstone
Ripples Energy® Scholar of the Week
The Touchstone Energy Scholar of the
Week is a program sponsored by KSFY
(USPS 018-904) News and local Touchstone Energy Coop-
Board of Directors eratives to recognize top senior students.
Kermit Pearson, President School faculty members nominate
Rodney Tobin, Vice President students based on academic achievements
Thomas Steiner, Secretary along with school and community involve-
Roger Kulesa, Treasurer ment. The senior selected receives a $100
check from the local Touchstone Energy
Andrea Kilker
Cooperative, Lake Region Electric Asso-
Amy Kuecker ciation, Inc., as well as a chance to win an
Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week Jamie
Mark Wismer Bludorn, left, and Lake Region Electric represen-
additional scholarship at the Touchstone tative Brett Kwasniewski, right, pose for a photo
Danny Smeins, LREA Attorney Energy Scholar Banquet. with Bludorn’s award.
Jamie Bludorn is the son of Tammie
General Manager: Tim McIntyre Muller-Bludorn and Jerry Bludorn. Jamie attends Webster Area High School and has a
2.74 GPA. Jamie has actively participated in choir, band and will join the golf team this
Staff spring.
Donna Sattler, Director of Finance/
Office Services Manager David Mallory, Webster Area High School History teacher, states, “Jamie is an exception-
ally hard worker and gives his all in everything he does. It (being involved) helps give
Jim Grimes,
him confidence in his ability to lead the other kids in class and things like that.”
Manager of Operations
Brett Kwasniewski, Jamie was recognized on a KSFY Newscast the week of Feb. 17 to 22, 2019.
Manager of Member Services Lake Region Electric Association, Inc. would like to congratulate Jamie and thank him
Tim Gaikowski, Manager for being an outstanding senior student.
of Technology Services
Marathon Water Heater
Warranty Claims
For many decades and still today, Lake Region Electric has recommended the instal-
lation of the Rheem® Marathon water heaters to many. Marathon water heaters are a
Lake Region Electric Association, Inc. is an high-quality tank with great insulation and, if installed with the original purchaser at a
equal opportunity provider and employer.
residential site with a product registration, has a leak-proof lifetime warranty.
Marathon tanks have shown to outlast the test of time with many
G Like us on Facebook: being installed for multiple decades. However, some tanks do
Lake Region Electric Association Inc.
leak and warranty claims are submitted by LREA to receive a
LAKE REGION RIPPLES COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS is the replacement tank.
monthly publication for the members of Lake Region Electric
Association, Inc., PO Box 341, 1212 N Main St., Webster,
SD 57274. Lake Region Electric Cooperative Connections’
To ensure that you will receive the leak-proof lifetime warranty,
purpose is to provide reliable, helpful information to you must have documentation of the proof of purchase. A
members on electric cooperative matters and better living.
replacement tank will not be given for a warranty claim without
Subscription information: As part of their membership,
Lake Region Electric members devote 50 cents from their proof of purchase.
monthly electric payments for a subscription. Nonmember
subscriptions are available for $12 annually. (USPS 018-904) LREA’s personnel understands that some record keeping doesn’t
Periodicals Postage Paid at Webster, SD 57274 and at addi-
tional mailing offices. date back that far and can assist with obtaining the correct docu-
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:
mentation, as needed. However, there is no guarantee that LREA
Lake Region Ripples Cooperative Connections can obtain the proof of purchase. The requirement to have the
PO Box 341, Webster, SD 57274
Telephone 605-345-3379; proof-of-purchase documentation takes effect immediately.
Toll Free 1-800-657-5869; Fax 605-345-4442 E-mail: lakere-
gion@lakeregion.coop If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the office
24 hour Dispatching/Outage Line toll free 1-800-657-5869. Thank you for your cooperation.
1-800-657-5869
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 3
SAFETY TIPS
Protect Your Family
According to the National Fire Protection Association,
electrical cords and temporary wiring account for more Always Call
Before You Dig.
than 25 percent of the estimated 81,000 electrical system
fires that occur each year. These fires can be prevented
by following these essential home electrical safety tips.
Extension cord safety
Don’t use extension cords as a substitute for repairing
building wiring.
Inspect extension cords for broken connectors,
damaged insulation and missing hardware before each
use.
Do not run extension cords through walls, over
beams, around corners or through doorways.
Only use extension cords approved for the
environment and loads expected.
Equip extension cords with ground fault interruption
(GFI) devices.
Don’t use coiled extension cords.
Discard damaged extension cords; don’t try to repair
them.
Use only surge protected power strips. Inspect
the power strips regularly for damage or signs of
One easy call gets your utility lines marked
overloading. and helps protect you from injury and expense.
Safe Digging Is No Accident: Always Call 811 Before You Dig
Temporary wiring
Visit call811.com for more information.
Don’t substitute temporary and flexible wiring for
repairing building wiring.
Use temporary wiring only when needed for
maintenance, repair or demolition activities. KIDS CORNER SAFETY POSTER
Limit temporary wiring for holiday or ornamental
lighting to no more than 90 days.
In outdoor settings, use only outdoor approved
temporary wiring and extension cords.
Don’t route temporary wiring across floors, around
doors or through walls.
Locate temporary wiring at least 7 feet above any
walking or working surface.
Protect temporary wiring from sharp edges, heat and
sunlight to avoid breakdown of the insulation.
Equipment power cords
Inspect equipment cords for damage before each use.
Don’t operate equipment cords without a ground “Do not use cords with bare spots.”
connection unless they are double insulated.
Don’t splice equipment cords to repair damage or to RosaLee Masson, 8 years old
extend the original length.
RosaLee is the grand-daughter of Steve and Ruby
Niklason, Bryant, S.D. They are members of
Safeguards to install Codington-Clark Electric Cooperative, Watertown, S.D.
Inspect all electrical appliances to ensure they’re
properly grounded. Kids, send your drawing with an electrical safety tip to your local
Write the purpose of each circuit breaker, fuse or electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). If your poster
switch on the panel board. is published, you’ll receive a prize. All entries must include your
Label all disconnecting switches and circuit breakers. name, age, mailing address and the names of your parents.
Colored drawings are encouraged.
Source: nationwide.com
4 Cooperative Connections | April 2019
RECIPES
Appetizers and Beverages
Hot Chicken Dip Orange Glazed Turkey Meatballs
3 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese, 1 (4 oz.) can sliced 1 egg 1 lb. ground turkey
softened jalepenos, chopped
1/4 cup milk 1 T. olive oil
2 (10 oz.) cans chicken 1 can cream of chicken soup
breast, drain 1 can 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs 1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp. salt 1 cup orange marmalade
Mix together and heat in microwave or crock pot. Serve warm with
any snack crackers or scoop chips. 1/2 tsp. McCormick® Poultry 1 T. white wine vinegar
Seasoning
Nancy Stenson, Fort Pierre, SD 1 pinch McCormick® Red
1/4 tsp. McCormick® Black Pepper, Ground
Pepper, Ground
Crab Roll-Ups
Beat egg and milk in large bowl. Stir in bread crumbs, salt, poultry
2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese 1 pkg. frozen crab meat, seasoning and pepper. Add ground turkey; mix well. Cover. Refrig-
thawed erate 1 hour. Shape into 1-inch meatballs. Heat oil in large skillet on
1/2 to 1 pkg. Hidden Valley
Ranch dressing mix 1 pkg. large flour tortilla medium heat. Place meatballs in single layer in skillet. Cook until
shells well browned on all sides. Remove meatballs from skillet. Set aside.
Mix orange marmalade, broth, vinegar and red pepper in skillet on
medium heat. Bring to boil, stirring to release browned bits in bottom
Melt cream cheese in microwave until soft enough to stir; mix in
of skillet. Return meatballs to skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low;
ranch dressing mix. Cut up crab meat into small pieces; mix with
cook 10 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has
cream cheese. Spread over tortilla shells and roll up. Refrigerate
reduced to glaze consistency. Makes 15 (2 meatball) servings.
1 hour. Cut into 1-inch slices. Store in refrigerator.
Patricia Cerny, Gregory, SD Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories 123, Total Fat 3g, Protein
7g, Cholesterol 37mg, Sodium 245mg, Carbohydrates 17g
Rise and Shine Smoothies Pictured, Cooperative Connections
1 cup fresh strawberries 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
Cappuccino Mix
1 banana 2 T. honey
1 cup coffee creamer 1/2 cup sugar
1 ripe mango 1 cup ice cubes
1 cup chocolate drink mix 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 cup orange juice
2/3 cup coffee crystals 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
Wash and hull strawberries. Peel banana and cut into chunks. Pit,
peel and slice mango. In a blender, combine all ingredients, blending Combine all ingredients. Add 3 tsp. mix to 1 cup hot water.
until smooth. Pour into glasses. Makes 2 servings.
Verna Nelson, Wakonda, SD
Eileen Holzerland, Waubay, SD
Cocktail Weiners Please send your favorite casserole, dairy or dessert
recipes to your local electric cooperative (address
1 cup brown sugar 1/3 to 1/2 cup grape jelly found on Page 3).
1 cup ketchup 2 pkgs. cocktail smokies Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing
for a prize in June 2019. All entries must include
Combine all ingredients; simmer on low heat. your name, mailing address, phone number and
Linda Rauscher, Aberdeen, SD co-op name.
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 5
CO-OP INFORMATION
Office Staff
Observes
RED Fridays
Reprint from Reporter & Farmer, Webster, SD.
Photo by: Amanda Fanger, Reporter & Farmer, Webster, S.D.
Webster, S.D.
RED shirt Fridays are to help people keep in mind the troops who
are actively serving in the military. Remember Everyone Deployed
(RED) is a national concept that started around 2005 or so but is
being reintroduced to the Day County area as a way to support
members of the South Dakota Army National Guard 147th Forward
Support Company. Pictured in their red shirts are Donna Sattler
(seated on left), Vanessa Bloom, Justin McClurg and Autumn
Spiering (seated on right) who are employees at Lake Region Electric
Association. Bloom’s brother, Chris Ewalt, is a member of the 147th.
Employee Appreciation
Administrative Professional’s Day is April 24, 2019. LREA’s Office
Department is committed to the job, and committed to you, our
Pictured in their red shirts are Donna Sattler
member-owners. (seated on left), Vanessa Bloom, Justin McClurg
LREA is grateful for all of our hard working and dedicated and Autumn Spiering (seated on right).
employees! We are here to serve you, our member-owners.
#thankalineman
The Operations Department pictured, from left, are
Shawn Schmidt, Mat Lynde, Jesse Pesall, Dan Williams,
Jim Grimes, Tyler Aadland, and Bryce Jorgenson.
6 Cooperative Connections | April 2019
MEMBER NEWS
Tour Basin Electric Power Cooperative’s Antelope
Valley Station, a clean, coal-based power plant
with a generating capacity of 3,800 MW.
GET AWAY WITH LREA
Stress floats away when you let us be your tour guide. This North American Coal Corporation’s Freedom Mine, America’s
summer, Lake Region Electric has planned the perfect relaxing largest lignite coal mine.
vacation. And, you might even learn something.
Dakota Gasification Plant – Great Plains Synfuels, a Basin
Co-op members can enjoy a bus tour to see where your elec- Electric Power Cooperative subsidiary.
tricity is generated, stay in a nice hotel and enjoy terrific meals
on a two-day vacation. Lake Region Electric and FEM Electric of Basin Electric Power Cooperative Headquarters
Ipswich annually join forces to sponsor a membership tour to see Lewis and Clark Riverboat Cruise and catered evening meal.
the power generation and transmission facilities of Basin Electric (These tours/attractions are for the 2019 Basin Tour and are
Power Cooperative (one of LREA’s power supply partners). As subject to change each year.)
a cooperative member of Basin Electric, Lake Region members
You’ll only be billed $25 per couple for the whole trip including:
own a share of these generation assets.
transportation via coach charter bus, tours/attractions costs, all
This tour, scheduled for July 10 and 11, 2019, is open only to meals and overnight accommodations at a deluxe hotel (double
Lake Region members at the LOW price of $25 per couple! occupancy). LREA picks up most of the tab.
Basin Electric Power Cooperative, headquartered in Bismarck, Reservations are limited. Register today to be assured a space
N.D., owns and/or operates 3,880 MW of electric generating for this exciting and inexpensive vacation. The trip will be filled
capacity. Basin Electric’s resources – including some of the on a first come-first, serve-basis, with preference given to LREA
cleanest coal power plants in the nation and more than 10 percent members who have not previously been on the trip.
in renewable generation – serve 135 rural electric member
cooperative systems that in turn serve more than 2.8 million At least one registrant must be an active member of Lake Region
consumers in eight states from North Dakota to New Mexico. Electric to be eligible. Preference will be given to LREA members
who have not previously taken this trip. The cost to co-op
The Basin Electric Tour includes many different sightseeing and members for this tour is $25 per couple. Members attending
attractions. the trip will be billed $25 on July’s electric bill. Registrations will
Basin Electric Power Cooperative’s Antelope Valley Station, a be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. All hotel rooms
clean, coal-based power plant. are double occupancy. Portions of the tour require some walking,
wear comfortable shoes.
Basin Electric Tour Application
LREA Member Name: ______________________________________________________________ Telephone: ________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Email Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Guest’s name: _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ________________
Address (if different from above): _______________________________________________________________________________
Email Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please indicate pick-up location: Webster (6:15 a.m.) _________ Bristol (6:30 a.m.) _________ Groton (7 a.m.) _______
Members attending the trip on July 10-11, 2019 will be billed a onetime charge of $25 on July’s electric bill. Unless an
unforeseen conflict arises, members will be billed the $25 if cancelations aren’t made one week prior to the trip.
Return form to: Lake Region Electric, PO Box 341, Webster, SD 57274
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 7
YOUR SAFETY
Planting season brings reminders for the impor-
tance to keep equipment away from power lines.
KEEPING CALM
Know the Steps if an Accident Occurs
Brenda Kleinjan
editor@sdrea.coop
In the spring of 2017, an operations manager of a
cooperative in western South Dakota cooperative
got a call from a member.
There had been an accident and the member’s
tractor was now resting against two broken poles
which were supporting an energized 115-kilovolt
line.
Even though the power line did not ultimately
belong to the cooperative, it served to illustrate an
on-going concern: accidents between agriculture
equipment and power lines appeared to be on the
rise.
Cooperatives have engaged in educational efforts
to inform people what to do to first avoid the
accident and secondly what steps to take if an
accident occurs.
The first thing to keep in mind is to avoid the
accident. Know the height of your equipment,
the width of your equipment and the location of
various electric facilities that should be avoided.
Then, make sure that all involved are taking the A 2017 planting season accident in
steps to avoid having equipment come in contact western South Dakota broke the poles of
with electric utilities. a 115-kV line which stayed energized.
8 Cooperative Connections | April 2019
PRE-PLANNING CAN
SAVE
But if an accident does happen, knowing The member immediately called the
the steps to take could save your life and cooperative and stayed inside the cab of
those around you. the tractor. Thankfully, a fire did not start
LIVES
so the member did not have to exit and
If your equipment does come in contact
hop away.
with a power line:
Accidents involving underground cabinets
Stay inside the cab and call 911.
– commonly called the green boxes – have
Wait for electric crews to clear the also been occurring as equipment gets
area and keep others away from the
accident scene.
wider. And, the sheer volume of snow
accumulation that occurred in the winter
DURING PLANTING
of 2018-2019
If the equipment
resulted in several
catches fire and one
cabinets being hit
must exit the cab, If an accident does or buried during
there’s a process to
follow, too.
happen, knowing the snow removal
operations.
“Tuck your arms
steps to take could
The equipment
up and give save your life and housed in the
yourself a bear
hug and hop clear.
those around you. cabinets is
energized and can
Don’t touch the
pose the same
equipment and the
issues that occur when equipment contacts
ground at the same time. Then hop away,”
overhead lines.
said Courtney Deinert, communications
director at Central Electric Cooperative in In either case, the best option is to prevent
Mitchell, S.D. the accident from occurring by being When it’s go-time, it’s go-time.
aware of the location of the equipment. We understand that every
One of Central Electric’s members was
But, if an accident does occur, call your second counts during planting
involved in an incident involving a grain
local electric cooperative, stay inside the season, but taking a moment
cart and a power line on a farm near
vehicle’s cab and keep others away from
Mitchell. The auger of the grain cart to be mindful of safety during
the scene until co-op crews arrive.
became entangled in the lines. this anxious time could save you
a lot of heartache in the long
run. Remember to check your
equipment, be aware of power
lines, keep your cellphone on you
at all times, dress appropriately
and stay rested this spring.
Together we are
FAR M SA FE T Y
A Northern Electric Facebook post from
October discussed an accident in Spink
County where the operator took the
right steps after being involved in an
accident with an overhead line.
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 9
CO-OP NEWS
Three Director Seats Up for
Election June 6
When Lake Region Electric holds its annual meeting on June 6, 2019, in Britton,
S.D., Director Districts 3, 5 and 6 (shown at right) will be on the ballot. District 3
Director Kermit Pearson, District 5 Director Roger Kulesa and District 6 Director
Rodney Tobin are eligible to run again to represent their districts, however no
formal announcements have been made.
Nominations for director candidates are made by petition and considered by any
fifteen (15) or more members acting together to file a petition not less than forty-
five (45) days prior to the annual meeting.
If a petition is not filed for a district(s), it shall be the duty of the Board of Directors
to appoint a nominating committee. The committee shall prepare and file a report,
at least twenty (20) days before the annual meeting, of a list of nominations for
directors in such districts where no nominating petitions have been filed.
Any member who wishes to be considered as a candidate or knows of another
member
who wishes
Incumbent Directors to be consid-
ered, should
contact Lake
Region Elec-
tric’s office at
605-345-3379 or 1-800-657-5869.
Potential director candidates must be an active LREA member
and agree to attend all meetings. Selected candidates will be
published in the “Annual Meeting Notice to Members.” Nomina-
tions can be accepted from the floor during the annual meeting.
The nominee receiving the most votes at the meeting is declared
Kermit Pearson Roger Kulesa Rodney Tobin
District 3 District 5 District 6 the director of his/her district.
Nomination Procedures from LREA Bylaws:
Any fifteen (15) or more members acting together may make nominations for Board of Directors by a petition filed
not less than forty-five (45) days prior to the annual meeting. If no nominating petitions are filed, it shall be the duty
of the Board of Directors to appoint, not less than thirty (30) days before the annual meeting at which directors are
elected, a committee on nominations consisting of not less than four (4) nor more than eleven (11) members who
shall be selected from districts in which the vacancy exists so as to insure equitable representation. No member of
the Board of Directors may serve on the committee. The committee shall prepare and file a report, at least twenty
(20) days before the annual meeting, of a list of nominations for directors in such districts where no nominating
petitions have been filed.
The secretary shall mail, with the notice of meeting or separately but at least seven (7) days before the meeting, a
statement of the number of directors to be elected and the names and addresses of candidates.
At the annual meeting, the chairman or his/her designee shall read the statement of the secretary as to number of
directors to be elected and the names of nominees.
The chairman or his/her designee shall call for additional nominations from the floor and nominations shall cease
after a reasonable time. No member may nominate more than one candidate. Any member intending to nominate
a candidate from the floor shall notify the Cooperative prior to the opening of the meeting, to verify qualifications
and willingness to serve.
10 Cooperative Connections | April 2019Qualifications from
LREA Bylaws
No person shall be eligible to become or remain a
director of the Cooperative who is a close relative father,
mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, grandchildren,
first cousins or stepchild) of an incumbent director or of
an employee of the Cooperative, or is not a member in
good standing of the Cooperative and receiving service
at his/her primary residential abode or primary business,
which must be located in the directorate district that the
director is to represent; PROVIDED, that the designated
representative of any nonhuman member, such as a
corporation or its designee, shall notwithstanding that
he/she does not receive services from the Cooperative at
his/her primary residential abode, be eligible to become
a director if (1) he/she is in substantial permanent
occupancy, direction or use of the premises served by
the Cooperative, and (2) is a permanent and yearround
resident within the Cooperative’s service area or residing
not more than fifty (50) miles from the principal location
of the nonhuman member that is being served by the
Cooperative; BUT PROVIDED FURTHER, that no more
than one such person as the designated representative
may serve on the Board at the same time and in the
event that he/she should resign or is unwilling to so act,
that directorship shall become vacant. No person may
become or remain a director of, or to hold any other
position of trust in the Cooperative who does not have
the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract, or
is in any way employed by or financially interested in a Visit LREA’s booth at the
competing enterprise, or a business providing electric Britton Area Expo and Health Fair
services to the Cooperative, or a business primarily
engaged in selling electric appliances, fixtures or supplies on March 30, 2019.
to, among others, the members of the Cooperative. No
person shall be eligible to become or remain a director
of, or to hold any other position of trust in, the Cooper-
ative who is not at least eighteen (18) years of age. No
exemployee, either retired or terminated, will be eligible
to become a director of the Cooperative for at least
5 years after their employment ends. If a nominee for
director lacks eligibility under this paragraph or as may
be provided elsewhere in these bylaws, the chairperson
presiding at the meeting at which such nominee would
otherwise be voted upon shall disqualify such nominee.
If any person being considered for, or already holding,
a directorship or other position of trust in the Cooper-
ative lacks eligibility under this paragraph, the Board
shall withhold such position, or cause such person to
be removed therefrom, as the case may be. Nothing
Welcome New Members
contained in this paragraph shall, or shall be construed Eileen Warzeka
to, affect in any manner whatsoever the validity of any Anderson Family Revocable Living Trust
action taken at any meeting of the Board, unless such Michelle Eye
action is taken with respect to a matter which is affected Russell Wurst
by the provisions of this paragraph and in which one or Julaine Meyer
more of the directors have an interest adverse to that of
Hilltop Steakhouse LLC
the Cooperative.
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 11CO-OP NEWS
Extreme cold temperatures put the components
of wind towers at risk of failure, which is the
reason many wind towers in North Dakota and
South Dakota shut down at the end of January.
POWERING THROUGH WINTER
Extreme Cold Requires An ‘All of the Above’
Approach to Meet Demand for Electricity
Ben Dunsmoor in Bismarck, N.D., as well as hydropower
from the Western Area Power Adminis-
bdunsmoor@northernelectric.coop
tration. Basin Electric owns and operates
The record-setting cold and snow in South the coal, gas, diesel and wind generation
Dakota this winter led to record demand resources needed to meet the demand of
for power. The cold snap also highlighted member co-ops located in nine states in
the need for the continued use of coal the middle of the United States.
and natural gas generation as many wind
Weather stations generators in the region had to be shut
“Basin Electric is your cooperative,” said
Dave Raatz, Basin Electric senior vice
installed on wind down as a result of the frigid weather. president of asset management, resource
turbines automatically Extreme cold descended into the Upper planning and rates. “We are trying to do
Midwest in January and didn’t release its what we can to ensure everyone has the
shut down the grip for several weeks. East River Electric appropriate power so they do have the
wind tower when Power Cooperative in Madison, S.D., ability to have the electric heat and they
which supplies wholesale power to 24 do have the ability to have electricity at the
temperatures drop rural electric cooperatives and one munic- house.”
to 22 degrees F ipally owned system in eastern South Basin Electric had plans in place to meet
Dakota and western Minnesota, experi-
below zero. Those enced an all-time record peak for electric
the demand of co-op members during
the extreme cold in January and February
temperatures put demand on Jan. 29 and 30. Wind chills despite the challenges the frigid tempera-
dipped to 20 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit
the components below zero during that time period.
tures caused its generation resources.
Basin Electric saw many of its wind
of the wind tower “The East River system performed well towers in North Dakota and South Dakota
at risk of failure. under these extreme weather conditions shutdown as a result of cold temperatures
with very few issues,” said East River and had to rely on natural gas and coal
General Manager/CEO Tom Boyko. generation as well as market purchases.
Member co-ops of East River Electric According to Basin Electric Senior Vice
depend on a reliable supply of power President of Operations John Jacobs, wind
from Basin Electric Power Cooperative towers become brittle and cannot operate
12 Cooperative Connections | April 2019CO-OP NEWS
during extreme cold. Weather stations in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, which control water heaters, grain bin fans
installed on each turbine automatically Wyoming and Iowa. Raatz said that and other large loads during peak demand
shut down the wind tower when tempera- regional diversity is just as important to periods are also a piece of the power-supply
tures drop to 22 degrees F below zero. providing reliable power as a diversified puzzle. Raatz said the team at Basin Electric
Those temperatures put the components of generation mix. which forecasts electric demand can rely
the wind tower at risk of failure. on members who have load management
“That’s so valuable in coming up with a
devices installed at their service locations to
“The best analogy I can give is a rubber power supply. You don’t necessarily see
make those peaks less extreme.
hose,” explained Jacobs. “If you warm it up that cold weather over the whole area,”
enough, it will melt. If it gets too cold, it said Raatz. “As you get into these types of condi-
will get too brittle.” tions when it gets really cold, it is easier
to predict because load management is
That is the reason production from Basin
Electric’s wind resources bottomed out in “People take taking out the spikes. It is really valuable,”
Raatz said.
the early morning hours of Jan. 30 when electricity for
the Bismarck area saw air temperatures Maintaining Reliability
of 31 degrees F below zero in North granted. Sometimes
The main goal of electric cooperatives
Dakota and the National Weather Service that is good because is to provide safe and reliable power for
in Aberdeen, S.D., reported record low
temperatures of 33 degrees F below zero it means we are members at the end of the line. Jacobs
said it takes a dedicated team of co-op
or lower in Aberdeen, Watertown and doing our jobs.” employees to achieve that mission
Groton. Basin Electric’s fleet of natural
whether it is the operators at Basin Elec-
gas and coal-fired power plants paired
tric’s power plants or the co-op linemen at
with energy purchases from the market That regional diversity was evident during
the local level.
provided co-op members with a reliable the cold snap in North Dakota and eastern
supply of electricity during that period. South Dakota at the end of January. “We see the importance of having to turn
Rushmore Electric Power Cooperative in on that (light) switch because most of
“That’s why we have gas peaking units and
Rapid City, S.D., which supplies power the time when the weather is bad, our
you have that coal resource base that just
to eight electric cooperatives in western employees are at work,” said Jacobs. “There
continued operating despite cold weather
South Dakota saw higher demand for is a reason for what we do and a good
over the entire area,” Raatz said.
electricity during those time periods but feeling when you walk away.”
‘All of the Above’ Approach never saw a record peak like the East
And when the Great Plains and Upper
River co-ops experienced. During that
Basin Electric uses an ‘all of the above’ Midwest experiences extreme weather, the
period, Basin Electric was also able to pull
approach to supply electricity to member goal of maintaining reliability becomes
generation from resources in Montana
co-ops throughout South Dakota. Nearly even more important.
and Wyoming because it wasn’t as frigid in
45 percent of its generation portfolio
those states. “People take electricity for granted,” Raatz
comes from coal-fired resources while
said. “Sometimes that is good because it
20 percent comes from natural gas units Raatz said load management programs
means we are doing our jobs.”
and another 20 percent
from wind generation. Basin
Electric is also a member of
four power pools, which are
large regions of the United
States where utilities can
buy and sell electricity in the
market, and Basin Electric
has the contractual transmis-
sion rights to more power
between these regions.
“It is a combination of all
those owned-assets and
market purchases that come
to bear to serve member load
obligations,” Raatz said.
Basin Electric generates
electricity for 141 electric
co-ops in nine states and has
power plants and resources
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 13TEEN NEWS
Join dozens of South Dakota’s teens
for the 2019 SDREA Youth Excursion.
SDREA YOUTH EXCURSION
Educational Trip to Bismarck, N.D.
Every year, LREA sends at least three area students on a
power supply adventure, Youth Excursion. This supervised,
four-day learning retreat for high school students will be
LREA Youth Excursion
held July 22-25, 2019. Freshman, sophomores or juniors
whose parent or guardian is an active member of LREA
Application
can apply for this trip.
Name
Teens from all over South Dakota will join in North Dakota
for this educational, fun, fast-paced and enjoyable trip.
Students ride in a deluxe bus, stay in Bismarck, eat healthy Address
meals, enjoy social activities and tour huge power genera-
tion facilities that provided electricity to LREA members.
City
This trip is at little-to-no expense to the family as LREA
pays for transportation, lodging and most meals for the State, ZIP Code
students. This is part of LREA’s commitment to tomorrow’s
cooperative leaders. Student’s Phone
Highlights of the trip include tours at Antelope Valley
Station, a coal-based power plant; Great Plains Synfuels’
Dakota Gasification Company, a Basin Electric Power Parents’ Names
Cooperative subsidiary; and The North American Coal
Cooperation Freedom Mine. Students will also learn about
Parents’ Phone
the cooperative model and career opportunities within the
Number(s)
electric field.
Applying is the easiest part. Fill out the application on this
page and return it to Lake Region Electric, PO Box 341, Email Address
Webster, SD 57274. Deadline for entries is May 3, 2019.
For additional information or questions, please contact
Name of School/
Vanessa Bloom, consumer services/communications
Year in School
specialist, by phone toll free 1-800-657-5869 or via email,
vbloom@lakeregion.coop. T-Shirt Size S M L XL XXL XXXL
14 Cooperative Connections | April 2019CO-OP NEWS
PRE-PLANNING CAN
SAVE Lake Region Electric
LIVES
will be closed Friday,
April 19, 2019
in observance
DURING PLANTING of Good Friday.
Happy Easter
from all of us at LREA
When it’s go-time, it’s go-time.
We understand that every
second counts during planting
season, but taking a moment
Need An Electrician?
to be mindful of safety during Call Lake Region Electric!
this anxious time could save you LREA has a certified Electrical Department. Whether you are in need of
a lot of heartache in the long residential or commercial electrical services, our electricians are qualified
run. Remember to check your to meet your every need. We offer wiring services for your home, grain bin
equipment, be aware of power site, shop, irrigation and more.
lines, keep your cellphone on you New construction and remodeling projects.
at all times, dress appropriately Generator system sales, installation and service.
Lighting – security, home or business.
and stay rested this spring.
Underground locating and fault repair.
Electrical troubleshooting.
Trenching and backhoe.
Together we are Contact Member Service Manager Brett Kwasniewski at the office toll free
1-800-657-5869.
FAR M SA FE T Y
Brett Kwasniewski Nick Kvernevig Zachary Bremmon Vinson Dargatz
Manager Journeyman Journeyman Apprentice
Electrician Electrician Electrician
April 2019 | Cooperative Connections 15DATELINE
December 15-March 31
South Dakota snowmobile
trails season, Lead, SD,
605-584-3896
March 22-23, 29-30
Mystery Dinner Theater,
Legion Hall, Faulkton, SD,
605-380-1556
March 23
Annual Ag Day, Washington
Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD,
605-367-6000
March 29-30, April 5-6
Photo courtesy: RJ Ripper Film
Annual Schmeckfest,
Freeman, SD, 605-925-4237 April 15-16: Banff Mountain Film
Festival World Tour, Elks Theatre,
March 29-31 Rapid City, SD, 605-394-4101
Black Hills Home Builders
Home Show, Rushmore Plaza April 5-6, 11-14 April 18 May 30-June 1
Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, Green Earth Players presents John Mellencamp, Rushmore Senior Games, Sioux Falls,
605-348-7850 Drinking Habits, Palace Plaza Civic Center Fine Arts SD, Contact Nick Brady at
Theatre, Luverne, MN, Theatre, Rapid City, SD, 605-978-6924
March 30 507-283-9226 605-394-4115
Cultural Expo, South Dakota June 15
School of Mines and April 5-7 April 19-20 International Vinegar Museum
Technology Campus, Rapid Professional Bull Riders Sioux Empire Film Festival, Festival, Vinegar Museum will
City, SD, 605-394-6884 Unleash the Beast Tour, Sioux Belbas Theater inside the be open all day, Roslyn, SD,
Falls, SD, 605-367-7288 Washington Pavilion, Sioux 605-486-4820
March 30-31 Falls, SD, 605-367-6000
29th Annual Hats Off to the April 6 June 21
Artist Art Show, Community The Big Grape, Sioux Falls, SD, April 27 Dalesburg Midsummer
Center, Faulkton, SD, 605-322-8900 River Rat Marathon, Yankton, Festival, Dalesburg Lutheran
605-598-4482 SD, 605-660-9483 Church, Rural Vermillion, SD,
April 6-7 605-253-2575
April 4 Zonta Club Vendor and Craft April 27-28
McCrossan Banquet Auction Show, Northridge Plaza, Annual JazzCrawl, Sioux Falls,
featuring Loop Rawlins and Pierre, SD, 605-222-1403 SD, 605-335-6101 To have your event
the PBR, 5:30 p.m., Arena, listed on this page, send
Sioux Falls, SD, Tickets: April 7 May 1-5 complete information,
$75 each, 605-339-1203, Unni Boksasp from Norway Black Hills Film Festival, Hill including date, event,
www.mccrossan.org in Concert, 2 p.m., Riggs City, SD, 605-574-9454 place and contact to your
Theater, Pierre, SD, local electric cooperative.
April 4-5 605-222-1992 May 5 Include your name,
Holiday Arts Spring Craft Opening Day, Prairie Village, address and daytime
Show, Masonic Hall, Mitchell, April 12-14 Madison, SD, 800-693-3644, telephone number.
SD, 605-359-2049 First Dakota Classic Archery www.prairievillage.org Information must be
Tournament, Yankton, SD, submitted at least eight
April 5-6 605-260-9282 May 11 weeks prior to your
Forks, Corks and Kegs Food, Make-a-Wish Benefit event. Please call ahead
Wine and Beer Festival, April 13-14 Featuring Dueling Duel, to confirm date, time and
Deadwood, SD, 605-578-1876 Dakota Territory Gun Show, Silent Auction and Wine Pull, location of event.
Rapid City, SD, 605-270-0764 Aberdeen, SD, 605-370-4588You can also read
