For 11 years, Garland Power & Light has been recognized as a Tree Line USA utility for its commitment to proper tree pruning, planting and care in the service area.
“Trees are a critical part of urban landscapes all across the United States,” said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation. “They provide important benefits to residents, including clean air, clean water and a tolerable climate. Service providers like Garland Power & Light demonstrate that it’s possible for trees and utilities to co-exist for the benefit of communities and citizens”
Tree Line USA, a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes public and private utilities for pursuing practices that protect and enhance America’s urban forests.
GP&L achieved Tree Line USA by meeting five program standards:
Following industry standards for quality tree care
Providing annual worker training in best tree care practices
Sponsoring a tree planting and public education program
Maintaining a tree-based energy conservation program
Participating in an Arbor Day celebration
For more information about Tree Line USA, visit: www.arborday.org/TreeLineUSA
Five Core Standards of Tree Line USA:
- Quality Tree Care — Industry standards for pruning, planting, removals, trenching, and tunneling near trees are consistently followed.
- Annual Worker Training — Utility employees and contract workers are trained at least annually in best practices.
- Tree Planting and Public Education — Tree planting and public education programs are available to the public and paying customers, demonstrating proper tree planting, placement, and pruning while expanding the tree canopy in the community.
- Tree-Based Energy Conservation Program — A formal tree-based energy conservation program is in place, putting special consideration on the value of trees in conserving energy.
- Arbor Day Celebration — Sponsorship of or participation in annual Arbor Day events at the community level are documented, including collaboration with community groups whenever possible.
Information provided by city of Garland and www.arborday.org/TreeLineUSA.