We are giving away nearly 1,000 trees to residential customers through the Arbor Day Foundation’s Energy-Saving Trees program. For the 10th year in a row, this Earth-friendly and environmentally focused initiative can help you reduce your energy use and save money.

Beginning today, you can reserve one free tree per household by visiting arborday.org/delmarva. You can choose from several species, including Bald Cypress, River Birch, Red Maple and White Oak. Your one-gallon tree will arrive at your home via mail by the end of May.

In addition to saving energy, trees provide benefits to a community including:

• Improving air quality
• Improving water quality
• Reducing stormwater runoff
• Adding to the visual appeal of your neighborhood

Trees will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Through the Arbor Day Foundation’s website, you will have the power to explore interactive tools that can help you determine the best location on your property to plant your tree for energy-saving benefits. Properly planted trees can provide a homeowner many benefits, such as reducing energy use through summer shading and by slowing winter winds.

Before planting your energy saving tree, call 811 at least a few days prior to digging to learn the approximate location of underground utility equipment. Taking the right steps before digging will help prevent potential injury and avoid accidental damage to underground utility lines that could disrupt services to surrounding neighbors.

If you are unable to reserve a free tree through the internet, please call 855-670-2772.