Registration
opens tomorrow for popular program that helps Rhode Islanders save energy,
money
The
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Arbor Day
Foundation are teaming up once again to give away 1,000 trees as part of the
State's Energy-Saving Trees Program. The Program helps homeowners conserve
energy and reduce utility costs while beautifying their neighborhood.
Registration
opens Monday, September 12 and is required in order to reserve a tree. Supplies
go fast, so early registration is recommended. For more information and/or to
register for the program, visit www.arborday.org/RIDEM.
"We're
happy to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation again this fall to offer free
trees to Rhode Islanders," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "Last spring
the program was wildly successful – with all trees spoken for within the first 24 hours of registration
opening. Tremendous! Planting a tree is a great way for homeowners to
reduce their monthly expenses while promoting a healthier environment and
creating a beautiful memory with their families."
Trees
play an important role in cooling streets and homes, filtering air, and
reducing stormwater pollution. The trees distributed under the Energy-Saving
Trees Program are approximately four to six feet tall and will be distributed
in three-gallon containers for easy transport.
The Rhode Island 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.
Trees
can be picked up during one of the following pick-up events:
Saturday,
October 1 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) North Scituate Farmers' Market, 46 Institute
Lane, North Scituate
Saturday,
October 15 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) URI East Farm Farmers' Market, 1 East Farm
Road, Kingston
Saturday,
October 22 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) Pawtuxet Village Farmers' Market, 60 Rhodes
Place, Cranston
Saturday,
October 29 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) Mt. Hope Farm Farmers' Market, 250 Metacom
Avenue, Bristol
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).
