Oh My Gourd! Know What's Below Before Digging this Autumn
Cooler temperatures and a break from summer’s heat make fall one of the best times of year to tackle outdoor projects. From planting trees, setting fence posts, building a new deck, or finally putting in that garden bed, there’s always an Autumn project to be done. But before any shovel hits the ground, there’s one call every member should make first: 811.
Calling 811 connects you with North Dakota One Call, which notifies the utility companies serving your property, including BEK, so they can mark the approximate location of underground lines before you dig. Buried electric, gas, water, and fiber communications lines aren’t always where you’d expect, and striking one can mean anything from a costly repair to a serious safety hazard for you and your neighbors.
The process is simple and free. Call 811 or visit ndonecall.com a few days before you plan to start digging, and let them know where and when you’ll be working. Utility crews will come out and mark the lines with flags or paint, so you can dig with confidence knowing what’s below.
It’s a small step that takes just a few minutes, but it protects your property, family, and the infrastructure your whole community relies on. So, before you break ground this fall, know what’s below.
