Benefits of Participation in the Tree Line USA Program

For Utility Companies:

• Lower line clearance costs resulting from proper pruning.
• Improved rights-of-way management as a result of "right tree, right place" plantings
• Increased public exposure by meeting Tree Line USA requirements, resulting in community tree planting and public education
• Lower peak energy demand through increased canopy and better placement of trees
• Increased reliability of service because properly pruned and maintained trees with healthy root systems will mean less decay and structural weakness, and fewer downed lines during storms
• Collaborative urban forest management opportunities between the utility and other groups that impact community trees
• More trees will help absorb carbon dioxide produced by power plants that burn fossil fuels

For Communities:

• Healthier and more abundant community forests
• Reduced tree mortality resulting from proper pruning and trenching/ tunneling practices
• Increased reliability of service because properly pruned and maintained trees result in fewer downed lines during storms
• Reduced energy costs to consumers through strategically planted trees for energy conservation and a broader urban forest canopy
• Reduced heat island effect as a result of more shaded pavement