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.
"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.
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. 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).
