Plant a tree for Arbor Day

DEM & the Arbor Day Foundation again team up to offer you free trees

PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Arbor Day Foundation are teaming up to give away 1,000 trees this spring; the Energy-Saving Trees Program helps homeowners conserve energy, reduce utility costs, and beautify their neighborhood.

"We're happy to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation again this year to encourage homeowners to "green" their properties and promote a healthier environment," said DEM Director Janet Coit. 

"Trees play an important role in cooling our streets and homes, filtering our air, and reducing stormwater pollution. I hope Rhode Islanders will take advantage of this opportunity to plant a tree with their families and watch it grow; it will help with household expenses and benefit our environment for generations to come."

The trees are approximately four to six feet tall and will be distributed in three-gallon containers for easy transport. The RI Tree Council will provide planting and care instruction to homeowners - as well as guidance on how to maximize energy-savings. When planted properly, a single mature tree can save $30 annually in heating and cooling costs.

Now in its second season, the Energy Saving Trees Program has resulted in more than 800 trees being planted across the state. Registration opens Monday, March 28 and is required in order to reserve a tree. For more information and/or to register for the program, visit www.arborday.org/RIDEM. Trees can be picked up during one of the following pick-up events:

• Saturday, April 16 (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Westerly Public Library, 44 Broad Street, Westerly
• Saturday, April 23 (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Portsmouth Public Library, 2658 East Main Road, Portsmouth
• Saturday, May 7 (12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.): Knight Memorial Library, 275 Elmwood Avenue, Providence
• Saturday, May 14 (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.): Woonsocket Public Library, 303 Clinton Street, Woonsocket

For more information on DEM's programs and divisions, visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or via Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM).