Back by popular demand: DEM, Arbor Day Foundation offer free trees to homeowners this fall

Popular program helps Rhode Islanders save energy, money

PROVIDENCE – (RealEstateRama) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Arbor Day Foundation are teaming up once again to give away 1,000 trees as part of the State’s Energy-Saving Trees Program. The Program helps homeowners conserve energy and reduce utility costs while beautifying their neighborhood.

“We’re happy to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation again this fall to offer free trees to Rhode Islanders,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “Last spring the program was wildly successful – with all trees spoken for within the first 24 hours of registration opening. Tremendous! Planting a tree is a great way for homeowners to reduce their monthly expenses while promoting a healthier environment and creating a beautiful memory with their families.”

Trees play an important role in cooling streets and homes, filtering air, and reducing stormwater pollution. The trees distributed under the Energy-Saving Trees Program are approximately four to six feet tall and will be distributed in three-gallon containers for easy transport. The Rhode Island Tree Council will provide planting and care instruction to homeowners – as well as guidance on how to maximize energy-savings. When planted properly, a single mature tree can save $30 annually in heating and cooling costs.

Registration opens Monday, September 12 and is required in order to reserve a tree. Supplies go fast, so early registration is recommended. For more information and/or to register for the program, visit www.arborday.org/RIDEM. Trees can be picked up during one of the following pick-up events:

Saturday, October 1 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) North Scituate Farmers’ Market, 46 Institute Lane, North Scituate

Saturday, October 15 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) URI East Farm Farmers’ Market, 1 East Farm Road, Kingston

Saturday, October 22 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) Pawtuxet Village Farmers’ Market, 60 Rhodes Place, Cranston

Saturday, October 29 (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) Mt. Hope Farm Farmers’ Market, 250 Metacom Avenue, Bristol

For more information on DEM’s programs and divisions, visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or via Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM).