April has two special days that call attention to our natural world. Earth Day, on April 22, is about trees, clean air and water, and the protection of our environment.

 
Arbor Day, on April 28, is the older holiday and was established in 1872 by a pioneer of the Nebraska Territory, J. Sterling Morgan, who was later appointed the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture in 1893. A tree enthusiast, Morgan encouraged his fellow pioneers to plant trees across Nebraska. The day became an official holiday in Nebraska and is celebrated on Morgan’s birthday. 

Planting trees is a great way to show appreciation for the environment and has several energy benefits. Their shade helps provide natural air-conditioning, decreasing the overtime your actual air conditioner works. When it’s cold outside, trees can break the force of winter winds, and help reduce your heating costs. 

This spring, as you plan for adding trees at home or at your business, CREC reminds you to keep safety in mind: 

• Plant the right tree in the right place — select species of trees with your site conditions and desired functions in mind.
• Pay attention to proximity to electric poles and overhead power lines — plant at least 25 feet away from poles and lines to avoid branches interfering with lines. If you have a right-of-way path near your home or business, do not plant trees in this area.
• NEVER trim trees near power lines — always contact CREC if you see trees growing near our lines and facilities. 

For more information visit our Right-of-Way page here, or call us with questions, at 800-392-3709. 

This article is from the April edition of Current Times/Rural Missouri. Click here to read the full magazine.