Tree Giveaway Helps Conserve Energy

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While many local governments struggle to make ends meet, the city of Provo is giving back, but the green in this giveaway isn’t money; it’s trees.

“It’s an opportunity for the government to give back to the community,” Mayor John Curtis said. “It beautifies yards and saves energy.”

The annual event is part of the city’s Arbor Day celebration. This year’s giveaway included 500 trees.

[media-credit name=”Kat Linford” align=”alignright” width=”300″][/media-credit]

Provo has been recognized as a Tree City USA for more than 25 years. According to Provo Power’s Kat Linford, to become a of Tree City USA, a city must meet annual goals for planting and pruning trees. The tree giveaway program helps meet those requirements.

To qualify for this year’s giveaway, Provo residents had to have central air conditioning and submit an online application.

Mature trees shade homes and plants, lowering the need for water and providing natural cooling. Shading homes, air conditioners and paved areas with trees also dramatically reduces energy costs.

“If trees are placed accordingly, then it can reduce energy consumption,” Linford said.

Provo City Forestry Division offers a tree guide to help residents decide which trees will best suit their specific shade needs.

 

 

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