Alliant Energy and Trees Forever Supports Centerville Tree Planting Project

Interstate Power and Light Company (IPL) and Trees Forever has awarded a $3,000 grant to the Centerville Trees Forever organization through their Branching Out program. The grant is helping the group purchase 36 Redbud trees to line Drake Avenue in downtown Centerville.

Branching Out is a nationally-recognized grant program through which Alliant Energy, Trees Forever and local community leaders work together to fund and implement tree-planting projects. The program is designed to encourage energy efficiency, environmental awareness and community involvement in Iowa.

Alliant Energy strategic account manager, Jason Oglesby, presented the $3,000 check to Centerville Mayor, Greg Fenton at City Hall on Monday, August 20, 2007.

Mayor Fenton said the trees will be a part of an initial beautification phase of the city’s entrances. The 36 Redbud trees will provide beautiful spring color for residents and tourists who visit Lake Rathbun, the historic Drake Public Library and the Beck Mansion.

“We greatly appreciate Alliant Energy and Trees Forever’s generosity and their commitment to beautifying our community,” he said. “Grants like this allow us to keep our town energy efficient and beautiful year round.”

Oglesby said the grant’s goal is to support communities where Alliant Energy has a presence. “Energy efficiency is important to us and we believe our investment in tree planting and education will help our customers become more aware of the environmental and energy-saving benefits trees have to offer,” said Oglesby.

“Trees Forever and Alliant Energy are committed to improving the environment and our quality of life through long-term tree planting and care,” said Shannon Ramsay, president and CEO of Trees Forever. “We place a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and conservation plantings that create positive solutions one neighborhood and community at a time.”