St. Albans, Vermont – The City of St. Albans is planting 50 new trees along the public right of way as part of its 2020 Tree Planting Program, thanks to a grant from VGS. The Tree Planting Tree Program will plant or replace 50 trees each year and put the City one step closer to joining 3,400 other cities across the country that have achieved Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA status.
“This is an exciting program for our community that will help clean the air, conserve energy, provide a canopy for birds and other wildlife and brighten the quality of life in our city,” said Mayor Tim Smith. “We are thankful to VGS for helping us expand this important project.”
The benefits of planting trees are tremendous. As a tree matures, it can consume 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year and release enough oxygen for a human to breathe for two years. VGS provided the City with a $1,500 grant to help defray the cost of the trees.
“At VGS, we pride ourselves on offering innovative climate solutions for our customers. Our efficiency programs weatherize homes and businesses, we provide financial incentives to invest in energy efficient equipment, and our voluntary renewable energy program provides another path for families and businesses to cut carbon,” said Neale Lunderville, VGS President and CEO. “Planting a tree is an easy, low-cost, and effective way to fight climate change and spruce up the community at the same time.”
The City of St. Albans will continue to work with state agencies to comply with 24 V.S.A. § 871 to build a vibrant Shade Tree Program and to obtain Tree City USA status. Individuals wishing to be considered to have trees planted in the right of way by their house should contact Dave Southwick through City Hall.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com