In a continued effort to established positive influences
in the community, we adhere to EPA regulations and constantly
monitor and address environmental  concerns.
We are committed to providing economical and environmentally
responsible electrical power. We invest the capital necessary
to stay the course of cleaner air. In 1999, we joined with
the Cope Environmental Center in a regional celebration
of Earth Day (EnviroFair)
at the Wayne County fairgrounds. We distributed a total of 2000 trees at EnviroFair that year
and the year 2000. We will continue to participate in this
event.
We have also established a partnership with The Hayes
Regional Arboretum; together we will distribute another
3000 trees during Harvest Days celebration this fall at
the Hayes facilities. Their expertise in identifying trees
conducive to  our climate, functionality and aesthetics has made them invaluable.
Our mutual goal - is long term distribution of trees in
the Richmond Community.
To further our environmental commitment, we have joined the American
Public Power Association's Tree Power Program. We will facilitate
the distribution of trees to be planted in the Richmond
community.
Benefits:
Trees help prevent soil erosion, provide wildlife habitats, beautify
city streets, and reduce environmental noise and greenhouse
gas levels. Strategic landscaping is also an excellent method
for conserving energy. Popular programs include community
street tree-plantings, tree-giveaways to customers, utility/school
district partnership programs, and residential customer
education programs.
Clean the Air - Trees produce oxygen that we breathe. In addition,
trees remove air pollution by lowering air temperature,
by releasing water into the atmosphere, and by retaining
particulate. By reducing the need for heating and cooling
systems, trees also reduce emissions that contribute to
atmospheric carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect.
(1) Healthier and more abundant community forests.
(2) Lower line clearance costs resulting from:
Long-term cost savings from proper pruning vs. topping.
Low-growing rather than tall trees being planted under
utility lines.
(3) 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.
(4) Lower peak air-conditioning and heating
demand because of more trees -- and better placement of
trees -- to moderate air temperature. This will result
in decreased maximum power plant capacity.
(5) More trees will help absorb carbon dioxide
produced by power plants that burn fossil fuels.
 Remember:
Plant taller trees away from overhead utility lines.
Plant trees that do not exceed 25 feet at maturity under
utility lines.
Utility employees should only do pruning.
When possible plant trees.
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