Which of the following is an objective of utility pruning?

Reducing risk is a fundamental objective of utility pruning, as it focuses on minimizing hazards associated with trees near utility lines. This includes preventing branches from coming into contact with power lines, which can lead to power outages, fire hazards, and electrical hazards. By ensuring that trees are pruned away from these critical infrastructure elements, utility arborists help to maintain safety for both the public and the utility system.

The other options, while they relate to tree care, do not align with the primary goals of utility pruning. Creating aesthetic shapes or enhancing flowering are more aligned with landscaping and ornamental tree care, where the appearance and blooming characteristics of trees are prioritized. Increasing shade coverage might be a benefit of tree growth but is not typically a primary goal of utility pruning, which is about managing tree health and safety rather than maximizing shade.