Clinton Community College students and staff joined members of Clinton Trees Forever to plant 17 new trees at the Career Advancement Center on Arbor Day, April 28. The tree planting was made possible through a $2,500 grant from Alliant Energy’s Community Tree Program, part of the One Million Trees Initiative.
Species planted include Northern Red Oak, Serviceberry, Japanese Lilac, Eastern Redbud, and Prairifire Crabapple.
“Building the Clinton Career Advancement Center was an investment in the future. The new trees are an investment in the future, too. We are excited to be a part of the planting and can watch them grow for years to come,” said Dr. Brian Kelly, President of Clinton Community College.
“Adding trees to the exterior landscaping of this state-of-the-art educational facility is the final touch,” explained Randy Pennock, president of Clinton Trees Forever. “The trees will provide energy-efficiency benefits and increase the overall tree canopy in Clinton,” he added.
Trees make the future brighter and greener for everyone. In addition to energy-efficiency benefits, trees improve water quality, protect wildlife, and reduce greenhouse gases. That is why Alliant Energy committed to planting 1 million trees in Iowa and Wisconsin by the end of 2030. The Community Tree Program is designed to encourage energy efficiency, environmental awareness, and community stewardship.
“We are grateful for the collaborative effort with Clinton Community College students and staff as well as Alliant Energy and Trees Forever headquarters. All these organizations know the importance of planting trees to better our society,” said Pennock.
Members of Clinton Trees Forever also planted five trees of two varieties – Spring Snow Crabapple and Red Fall Maple – at Clinton High School as part of their Arbor Day project.
Clinton Trees Forever is a non-profit, volunteer organization with a mission to plant and care for trees and the environment by empowering people, building community, and promoting stewardship. For more information on upcoming projects, visit facebook.com/ClintonTreesForever.
Article by: Amanda Eberhart, Secretary/Treasurer, Clinton Trees Forever, 563-357-1153, clintontreesforever@gmail.com