Energy-saving program offers free trees to
Rhode Islanders
Jack Perry
Providence Journal
USA TODAY NETWORK
Rhode Islanders will have the chance to get free trees again this spring through a program that's now in its 13th season, according to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
The Energy-Saving Tree Program will provide 1,000 trees to Rhode Islanders in what the DEM says is a 'treemendous' opportunity.
Registration opens Friday, and trees can be picked up at several locations in April and May.
DEM Agriculture and Forestry Chief Ken Ayars says trees planted in the right location can help save money on energy costs and 'stand up to climate change.'
'Planting a tree in the right place can improve air quality, sequester carbon, and help manage storm water runoff,' Ayars said.
The trees are provided through a partnership between the DEM, the Rhode Island Tree Council , the Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association , and the Arbor Day Foundation . Funding is provided by the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
All program participants must be Rhode Island residents and must pre-register online to reserve their free tree. To reserve a tree, go to www.arborday.org/RIDEM . The trees typically go fast. Participants can arrange to pick up a tree at the following locations on the following dates:
Richmond Elementary School: 190 Kingstown Rd., Richmond, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 23.
Monsignor Gadoury School: 1371 Park Ave., Woonsocket, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., April 30.
Colt State Park: Route 114, Bristol, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m.-12 p,m.
The Rhode Island Tree Council: 2953 Hartford Ave., Johnston, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, May 14.
Online registration assistance is available through the Arbor Day Foundation at 1-855-234-3801.
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