Southern Company Gas is getting in the trenches alongside the National Excavator Initiative (NEI) and bringing along one of America's most trusted personalities, executive producer, Emmy-winning host, bestselling author, podcaster and skilled-trades advocate, Mike Rowe. Mike's animated alter ego, Micro Mike Rowe, joins to spread the word on the importance of contacting 811 before you dig.

Known for the hit TV series, "Dirty Jobs," "Somebody's Gotta Do It" and his groundbreaking Facebook show, "Returning the Favor," Rowe and his animated sidekick highlight the critical importance of underground utility infrastructure. With some earthy humor, they share what can — and likely will — go wrong if homeowners and contractors don't contact 811 before digging.

Through the National Excavator Initiative, Rowe connects with industry experts who help educate the public and professional excavators about the 811 process. The campaign includes radio, print, online media and billboards.

"Southern Company Gas is excited to work with the National Excavator Initiative to feature Mike Rowe and Micro Mike Rowe's voices to amplify our messaging around the importance of contacting 811 before you dig," said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Southern Company Gas. "Ensuring the safe delivery of natural gas to our 4.3 million customers and our communities is paramount. This new collaboration will serve as one of the many ways we educate people on the importance of safe digging." 

Contacting 811 at least three business days before starting any digging project is free and is required by state law. When homeowners and contractors contact 811, it notifies the appropriate utility companies of the intent to dig. Professional locators are then sent to the requested dig site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags, paint or both.