NORTHWOOD – A popular program offering landscape quality trees at a deep discount to Alliant Energy customers will be held at the Worth County Conservation Headquarters, 503 First Avenue North, in Northwood from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Sept. 19.
Operation ReLeaf, a residential tree planting program that promotes long-term energy and natural resource conservation, is funded by Alliant Energy and administered by the Iowa DNR Forestry Bureau with assistance from local partners, like Worth County Conservation Board.
Through the program, Alliant Energy residential customers may purchase high quality landscaping trees for $25 each. These trees typically retail for between $65 and $125.
Advanced order is highly recommended and advance purchase is limited to two trees per household. In the event there are extra trees available on distribution day, those trees will be released for purchase at that time. Order forms are available online at www.alliantenergy.com/releaf.
The DNR is encouraging homeowners to prepare for emerald ash borer and other tree pests by planting a diverse mix of tree species. Foresters have been working with local partners to create community tree inventories that will guide future tree planting efforts to keep a healthy mix of tree species.
The most recent tree survey for Northwood finds 54 percent of the trees are maple followed by ash at 17 percent. The DNR has a target for communities that no more than 10 percent of the trees are from any one species, and no more than 20 percent is from one genus.
Trees available at each distribution event are determined by the local tree species inventory. For Northwood, species available include American linden, bur oak, heritage oak, Kentucky coffeetree, American hornbeam, pagoda dogwood and Norway spruce.
Shade trees are 6 to 8 feet tall in 5 to 7 gallon containers and conifers are 2 to 3 feet tall.
“All trees are purchased through a bidding process to promote local nurseries,” said Paul Tauke, state forester and chief of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Forestry Bureau. “This is a great way for homeowners to get a quality tree at an affordable price.”
Just a few of the advantages of yard trees are:
• Decrease in household heating and cooling costs
• Increase in property values
• Decrease in storm water runoff, which may reduce flooding events
• Beauty and personal enjoyment
Studies have found that by having tree lined streets more people spend time outside which can improve activity and lower their body mass index, especially in kids. Studies also link trees to reduced asthma rates.
Operation ReLeaf participants must be Alliant Energy residential customers.
