Protecting Our Power & Environment | #38

Your power stays on because two people quietly protect the environment behind every pole, line, and substation. In this episode, Sonja and Tom sit down with Environmental Affairs Coordinators Grayson Jenkins and Carl Freeman to uncover the little-known work that keeps SMECO reliable and environmentally responsible. From wetlands and permitting to oil-spill response and wildlife protection, they break down the real challenges of balancing infrastructure with nature. Grayson and Carl share how they manage complex environmental regulations, respond to emergency transformer spills in the middle of the night, and help protect ospreys, eagles, owls, and other species through SMECO's Avian Protection Plan. You'll also hear surprising stories—from wetland matting to rescue booms to Boy Scout-built owl boxes—that show how deeply SMECO is committed to stewardship. Key Themes: Wetlands, permitting, and protecting sensitive environments Oil spill response and transformer safety SMECO's Avian Protection Plan & wildlife conservation Community partnerships, including local landowners and the Boy Scouts Tune in to see how the power you rely on every day is supported by a team working tirelessly to protect the land, water, and wildlife of Southern Maryland. Follow SMECO: Instagram: somdelectric Twitter: somdelectric