Planting Energy Savings One Tree at a Time

By Brianna Wall

As one of only two certified Tree Line USA Utility electric co-ops in Oklahoma, OEC partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation in April to give away 120 trees to members who signed up online. Daniel Lofland, OEC's energy efficiency and solutions specialist, offered tips on how to maximize the benefits of a strategically placed tree.

"First, look up. If there are overhead power lines where you are wanting to plant a tree that could grow to be 20 feet tall, plant it at least 10 feet away from that line," he suggested.

Also, it is extremely important to call Okie to have all underground lines located before you plant a tree of any kind. Any costs from damage incurred without having lines located first is on the homeowner."

The direction your home faces plays a critical role in deciding where to plant trees. In which rooms in your home do you spend most summer afternoons? Consider planting trees to shade those windows from the hot summer sun. [1628110103]

"This is a great time of year to determine where to plant trees next fall and spring simply by surveying your property and pinpointing which windows would benefit best from being shaded," Lofland said. "Again, be sure to call Okie (811) to ensure you don't hit a line when digging, and check one more time to make sure the tree won't interfere with overhead power lines."

The Energy-Saving Trees program is part of the Arbor Day Foundation's Time for Trees initiative to plant 100 million trees in forests and communities around the globe and inspire 5 million tree planters to help carry the mission forward. For more information and a full tree planting guide, visit the tree trimming and vegetation management page at www.okcoop.org.