Lincoln, Neb. (May 9, 2012) – The Arbor Day Foundation has named 145 utility providers a 2012 Tree Line USA in honor of their commitment to proper tree pruning, planting and care in the their respective service areas.
Tree Line USA, a partnership between the Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes public and private utilities for pursuing practices that protect and enhance America's urban trees. The Tree Line USA program promotes the dual goals of delivering safe and reliable electricity while maintaining healthy community forests.
Jacksonville Electric Authority of Jacksonville, Florida, and Avista Utilities of Washington State are among the providers being named a Tree Line USA for the first time. Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, Idaho Power Company and Arizona Public Service Company are among the providers that have been recognized for more than 15 years in a row.
More information on the program and a complete list of winners can be found at arborday.org/TreeLineUSA.
"Trees are a critical part of urban landscapes across the United States," said John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Service providers like these honorees show that taking care of urban trees is good for business, for customers and for the broader community."
Winning utilities achieved the Tree Line USA by meeting five program standards: follow industry standards for quality tree care; provide annual worker training in best tree-care practices; sponsor a tree-planting and public education program; maintain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.
About the Arbor Day Foundation: The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit conservation and education organization of one million members, with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information on the Foundation and its programs can be found at arborday.org, or by visiting us on Facebook, Twitter or our blog.