Paul Byl– GLE Board Director
Nurturing Growth In The Community very successful farmer stems from a foundation based on dedication, attentiveness to his or her crop’s needs, and hard work. Paul Byl, Great Lakes Energy (GLE) Board Director and local farmer, is no exception. Paul’s family farm in Shelby has played a role in shaping him into the person he is today. Aside from time away for college, Paul (now along with his wife Anne), has lived on the very farm his parents established since he was 10 years old.
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During asparagus season, especially following bouts of heavy rain, the days are long with spraying demands. Cherries require the same demand for care and attention in the summer months. Putting in 14-hour days to get produce ready for the processor is a necessity that Paul understands thoroughly.
“I want to see GLE continue to maintain the lines and carry on with great reliability, but at the same time, we want to keep building infrastructure and remain affordable, too. It’s a fine line, but I think we are doing a great job.” —Paul Byl
“To prevent infection in asparagus and fruit trees during prolonged periods of rain or storms, we will have to begin our day at 4 or 5 in the morning to spray,” explains Paul. “With the cherry season, we start at the first moment of sunlight in the morning, and we’ll shake until 6 in the evening, then maintenance and prep work for the following day until 10 or 11 p.m.”
“I really like the staff at GLE. They’re excellent. They’re hard workers with good moral fiber. They have the members’ hearts in their minds and do what is best for them,” Paul said. “I want to see GLE continue to maintain the lines and carry on with great reliability, but at the same time, we want to keep building infrastructure and remain affordable, too. It’s a fine line, but I think we are doing a great job.”
When spare time becomes more readily available in the off months, Paul makes sure to take his dogs, Ada and Oliver, out for a stroll along the beach. Combing for driftwood is a therapeutic escape. He can step away to collect himself and return with a clear head and direction. Paul also dedicates his time to help in his community. He volunteers at the Ladder Community Center in Shelby, a facility that serves adults and senior citizens during the day and middle school and high school students in the afternoons. He is also involved with a group that facilitates recreational activities for youth.
Never one to simply be content, Paul admits that his commitment to the members of GLE keeps his mind racing. “Especially following a big storm, I question myself,” Paul said. “Should we have done more tree trimming? Should we clear the lines more than we currently are? We seem to be able to recover from storms very well, and members around here are appreciative of how quickly we bounce back, but I am always looking for improvement.”
That dedication to work and community, planted in Paul like a seed, has grown and spread into other endeavors in his life. Paul has been a GLE board member for 37 years. 12 MARCH 2021
Looking ahead, Paul is excited to bring Truestream fiber internet to members in his district. “Due to COVID, a lot of people are staying in their cottages out here year-round. They would like to work from home, but that possibility is hindered without access to great high-speed internet. We’re looking forward to answering that need,” he said.