This problem is only going to get worse (not blaming anyone) with all the dead pine trees, it will take years to trim them all back ,so they don't land on the power lines when they are blown down. Not only that, but the winds seem to be getting stronger and more frequent thus more blowdown, more power outages, a major inconveniance these days.
Too bad we can't put convict labour to work on the cleanup (after the qualified and properly equipped crews have dropped the dead trees) they could gather the detritus and sell it for firewood (cut rates for elderly & needy) the funds would help to offset the free room and board we extend to these unfortunate detainees.
metalman.

Good idea, metalman.
Now, just convince the government.
Oops, objection from the public?
Detainees scooping jobs from the working class?
Maybe a few unions could get involved?
It would be a further manner in which convicts could pay their debt to society for their crimes, and many would probably be willing, but you first have to battle the protectionist system in place by the balance of society.
Could be a hard sell!
I am on your side!