The following information was taken from an Arbor Day Foundation news release:

AEP Texas achieved Tree Line USA status recently as a utility provider dedicated to protecting its community’s trees, according to the Arbor Day Foundation.

Through its Tree Line USA program, the Arbor Day Foundation, in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters, recognizes public and private utility providers that demonstrate practices that protect and enhance America’s urban forests. The goal of Tree Line USA is to promote safe, reliable electric service and abundant, healthy trees throughout a utility company’s service areas.

“Trees are an important part of urban landscapes all across the United states from an environmental and economic standpoint,” said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees not only help clean the air and water sources, the shade they provide helps reduce peak energy usage and conserve energy. Utility providers like AEP Texas are setting a good example about the importance of recognizing the importance of caring for a valuable community resource like trees.”

The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit conservation and education organization dedicated to tree planting and environmental stewardship. More information about the Foundation and the Tree Line USA program can be found at arborday.org.