At Black Hills Energy, we perform regular vegetation management and trim trees to reduce wildfire risk, minimize outages and support safe and reliable service. But some of our team members use their tree-trimming skills for a different cause; honoring those who have served our country. 

Every year, thousands of families visit Black Hills National Cemetery to honor and remember loved ones who served our nation. The cemetery's peaceful landscape, mature trees and carefully maintained grounds provide a fitting tribute to the sacrifices of America's veterans.

Saluting Branches, a unique volunteer effort, is helping to preserve that setting. The organization brings together arborists, tree care professionals and industry partners for a nationwide day of service. Together, these individuals donate their time and expertise at national cemeteries across the country.

At the center of South Dakota's event is Derek, a senior vegetation management specialist who has served as the local site leader since the program first came to the state.

Trimming trees for a cause

Derek got involved with Saluting Branches in 2022 when organizers reached out after finding him through the International Society of Arboriculture's directory of credentialed arborists.

At the time, the organization was working to expand its footprint and establish events in all 50 states. 

"When they called, they were looking to establish the first location for the event in South Dakota, so they asked me to volunteer as the site leader," Derek said.

The role came with significant responsibility. Derek was tasked with building a relationship with Black Hills National Cemetery, recruiting sponsors and volunteers, coordinating equipment and helping organize the event from the ground up.

"I'm not sure if I was first or last to be called, but I was the one who said yes," he said.

For Derek, the opportunity immediately stood out because it combined his professional expertise with community service.

"I have never seen a volunteer opportunity involving my niche career of choice, arboriculture," he explained. "I thought it was a great opportunity to use the local arborists' skills for a greater cause and make a fun day of service, community and networking for our small group of tree workers."

Today, Saluting Branches has established events in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Black Hills National Cemetery remains the organization's only participating location in South Dakota.

Making a difference where it matters most

Over the years, volunteers have completed a wide range of tree care projects throughout the cemetery, including pruning, trimming and removing trees alongside Black Hills National Cemetery staff. The work helps address projects that may otherwise be delayed because of budget limitations, equipment needs or staffing challenges. 

"We have trimmed and removed countless trees working with cemetery personnel, trying to fit their needs and do the work they either don't have the budget for, don't have the equipment for, or aren't qualified for," Derek said.

As the relationship between volunteers and cemetery staff has grown, so has the impact of the event.

"I've been able to meet great people, see my local contracted arborists step up, see local businesses support the event, see people from competing companies work together for the same purpose and most of all, see the appreciation from the cemetery workers," he said.

That collaboration creates benefits beyond the physical work being performed. During planning meetings and volunteer workdays, arborists and cemetery personnel exchange knowledge about tree identification, trimming practices, tree risk assessment and industry standards.

"Having the opportunity to bring in experienced climbers and bucket operators without cost, bidding processes or contracts really helps rectify long-standing issues at the location," Derek said.

Industry partnerships rooted in service

While Saluting Branches centers on volunteerism, its success depends on strong partnerships throughout the tree care and utility industries.

Derek credits the continued support of Black Hills Energy and several contractor partners for helping make the annual event possible. The company empowers Derek to coordinate the effort and provides support through its contractor network. In some years, the company has also helped provide lunch for volunteers.

A shared commitment to honoring veterans

One of the most meaningful aspects of Saluting Branches is seeing how many people are willing to contribute their skills in support of veterans and their families.

The annual event improves the landscape of a national cemetery and strengthens relationships throughout the local arboriculture community while creating opportunities for service and professional development. Most importantly, it helps the Black Hills National Cemetery remain a place worthy of the sacrifices it commemorates.

"All this together makes me feel so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a unique event," Derek said. "It allows me to share my passion for trees, recruit great professionals in the industry and contribute to the beauty of a place that thousands visit each year to remember loved ones lost and give them a setting that does their memory and sacrifices justice."

Five years after agreeing to help launch South Dakota's first Saluting Branches event, Derek continues to lead the volunteer effort that demonstrates the power of service, community and collaboration.

For the volunteers who donate their time each September, the work is about far more than trimming trees. It’s an opportunity to honor those who served and help preserve a place where their memories can be celebrated for generations to come.