Project trEE-O2

Program Description
This project will deliver a sustainable tree planting program designed to maximize and quantify the energy and carbon reductions from planting 2500+ trees in 10 Iowa communities affected by the 2008 natural disasters. The project will engage city residents, business owners, volunteers, students, and city leaders in participating communities to build capacity for future planning, preparation, and implementation of tree initiatives.

Funding Sources
The program funding comes from the Iowa Power Fund (state government money) and State Energy Program (federal government funding), plus matching dollars and resources from other Trees Forever programs, partnerships and the participating communities.

Participating Communities and Field Coordinators

Cedar Rapids and Marion (Karen Brook)
New Hartford and Muscatine (Patty Petersen)
Parkersburg and Waverly (Meredith Borchardt)
Keokuk and Columbus Junction (Roger Hunt)
Cedar Falls and Palo (Mark Pingenot)

Program Timeline
Start date was October 15, 2009. End date is January 30, 2012.

Program Deliverables (minimum grant requirements)

Of the 2500 trees committed, approximately 800 trees (30%) will be planted to maximize energy efficiency in flood affected or low income residences. The remaining 1700 trees (70%) will be planted to maximize energy efficiency for public facilities such as schools, libraries, rec. centers, community buildings,etc.
There will be a minimum of three planting events/projects in each community - one in spring 2010, one in fall 2010, and one in spring 2011. Trees Forever staff will assist with coordinating local volunteer efforts for these planting events.
Trees Forever staff will make a minimum of six presentations on the benefits of trees for energy efficiency and carbon reduction - including two presentations to city council, two presentation to school or youth groups, and two presentations to local service or social organizations.
Trees Forever will help generate local media coverage for all projects and events associated with this project, recognizing project sponsors whenever possible.
Trees Forever staff will assist with developing an ongoing tree management plan for each participating community by the conclusion of this project.