Alliant Energy Branching Out

For 20 years, Trees Forever has helped communities with local tree planting and forestry efforts. By providing funding and technical assistance, trees Forever empowers local volunteers to carry-out well-planned, volunteer-led, energy efficient reforestation and beautification projects. A nationally recognized and award-winning model, the program is a unique partnership between Trees Forever and both investor-owned and municipal utilities in Iowa.

Program Name: Alliant Energy Branching Out^TM

Program Summary: The Branching Out program is a partnership between Alliant Energy, Trees Forever, and communities that empowers volunteers to complete and maintain locally-led tree planting projects.  The program provides annual grant funding and technical assistance for projects including parks, schools, residential, gateways, trails, cemeteries, libraries, and more.

Who is eligible to participate?  Communities in Iowa served by Alliant Energy (gas and/or electric)

What are the goals of this program?  The desired outcomes of the Branching Out program include the development of educated, empowered community volunteers, and the completion and maintenance of tree planting projects that beautify and shade the community, improve its urban forest, increase energy efficiency, and make the public aware of the benefits of trees.

What assistance or services are provided through this program?  The program provides annual grant funding for the purchase of trees, ranging from $500 and $10,000.  Trees Forever field coordinators provide technical and planning assistance, including species selection, review of a site plan, planting and care of trees, planting for energy efficiency, volunteer coordination, working with the media, and fundraising.

What is the application deadline?  Two deadlines – June 1, 2010 and November 1, 2010.

Who sponsors this program?  Alliant Energy.