THE Power of Trees

While debate goes on regarding the impact of human interaction on the environment, at least one thing is certain: There's something we can all do to create a healthier environment.

What is Black Hills Energy doing to support the environment?

Black Hills Energy sponsors many programs to address this issue including helping customers weatherize their homes, assisting Colorado customers who decide to install photovoltaic systems on their homes, incorporating wind energy into our electricity generating options and building more "clean" technology into our vital power plants. But Black Hills Energy is not stopping there.

Black Hills Energy also offers energy efficiency tips and rebates to encourage customers to use energy wisely and partners with neighbors where we work to plant trees This Black Hills volunteer service project is called the Power of Trees program.

What is Power of Trees?

The Power of Trees is a community-focused program designed to raise public awareness about the positive impacts trees have on our homes, communities and the environment.

Each business unit and utility organization across our service footprint plans their own annual program, specifically designed to meet the needs of the local communities. Training and guidance is provided through our partnership with Trees Forever, an Iowa-based, non-profit organization involved in community tree planting programs. Black Hills Energy has supported this organization for more than 15 years.

What are the benefits of trees?

When placed and planted correctly, trees not only contribute to a beautiful landscape, they also help shade and cool homes and businesses. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, properly placed trees can lower your energy costs by up to 20 percent.

Trees also consume carbon dioxide (CO₂) an air pollutant. An average tree absorbs about one ton of CO₂ over the course of its lifetime; about the same amount saved in one year by driving a hybrid car.

In addition, before planting it is important to consider where the tree will live. For safety, before moving soil, gardeners should "call before you dig." By dialing the national 811 One Call service, damage to underground natural gas lines and other costly issues can be avoided by using this free locating service. It is also important to look-up as a location is evaluated. It is better to plant trees away from power lines so that they do not interfere with your electric service.

The Power of Trees is about more than just planting trees. It's about spreading knowledge that trees make our communities more environmentally friendly. It also teaches us how trees should be planted and maintained so their benefits are long-term.

Through the Power of Trees community partnerships, all of us can make a difference.

For more information on our Power of Trees program, please contact the External Affairs or Communications contact for your area noted below:

Interactive Windbreak & Shade Tree Locator game.