DTE Energy Tree Planting Grants Awarded:

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in cooperation with DTE Energy, today announced grants totaling $56,000 to 21 communities for tree-planting projects.

The program is designed to increase the number of properly planted trees in municipalities and maintain those trees in good condition and health. It is part of DTE Energy’s voluntary participation in the US Department of Energy’s Global Climate Challenge program.

The USDA Forest Service has commended DTE Energy and the DNR for their creative partnership and leadership in tree planting programs. Through these programs, more than 5,000 trees have been planted in nearly 100 communities, and a total of 20 million trees have been planted statewide.

Trees improve environmental quality and the quality of life in the urban, suburban, and rural communities where people live. A key benefit that trees provide is carbon sequestration. Through photosynthesis, trees convert carbon dioxide and water (using sunlight), into glucose (sugar) and oxygen. DTE Energy funds the grant program as part of its effort to reduce carbon dioxide, a green house gas associated with climate change.

For more information, contact Kevin Sayers, Urban and Community Forester, at 517-241-4632, or DNR Forest, Mineral and Fire Management, Urban and Community Forest Program, PO Box 30452, Lansing, MI 48909-7952.

Source: MDNR