(Jasper, Ga., Nov 10, 2025) – A dangerous tree trimming accident had a positive outcome thanks to the safety training and actions of an employee from Amicalola EMC.
In recognition of his quick actions, Anthony Lowman, right-of-way crew leader at Amicalola EMC, received a Lifesaving Award from Georgia EMC during the state association’s annual meeting held on November 10 in Savannah.
On July 15, Gilmer County Fire & Rescue responded to a distress call involving a man who had become entangled while cutting in a tree, leaving him suspended approximately 40 feet in the air by his waist harness for nearly 2 hours. The tree, located behind the residence, was in an area inaccessible to the department’s ladder trucks, making the rescue particularly challenging.
Recognizing the complexity and urgency of the situation, Gilmer County Fire & Rescue requested assistance from Amicalola EMC. Right-of-Way Crew Leader Anthony Lowman answered the call, bringing his specialized expertise to the scene.
Upon arrival, Lowman quickly assessed the situation, geared up and climbed the tree to reach the injured man. Demonstrating exceptional skill and composure, Lowman successfully brought the patient safely to the ground. Once on solid ground, the man was handed over to the care of Gilmer County medical professionals for evaluation, and it was reported he made a full recovery.
“Amicalola EMC is incredibly proud of Anthony for his bravery and selflessness,” said Todd Payne, President and CEO of Amicalola EMC. “His courage, compassion, and dedication to the well-being of others exemplify the values we hold as an organization. We are grateful for his heroic actions in assisting with this rescue.”
Lowman is one of 20 employees from nine EMCs in Georgia to be recognized with a Lifesaving Award, which recognizes EMC employees whose quick thinking and actions are instrumental in safeguarding others from dangerous or potentially deadly situations.
About Amicalola EMC:
Amicalola EMC is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that serves more than 57,000 locations in 10 counties (Bartow, Cherokee, Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Gilmer, Gordon, Lumpkin, Murray and Pickens).
About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 5 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow on Facebook and X.
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