Springfield community partners with Eversource to plant trees across the city

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Arbor Day was in April, but Springfield continues to plant trees across the City of Homes.

The city of Springfield, with its Parks and Recreation Department and Forestry Department, joined Eversource in planting trees around the city on Monday.

Springfield was designated a "Tree City" by the Arbor Day Foundation back in 1986, and nearly 40 years later, they are still focusing on the environment. Residents were able to pre-select trees as part of Eversource's partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation and their Energy Saving Tree Program.

"It's really heartwarming to me," said Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. "The response people are pouring in here to pick up the trees they signed up for."

Eversource provided 1000 free trees to residents in their coverage areas, including about 200 to customers in Springfield. Not only are the trees beneficial for the environment, but they are also beneficial for residents' energy bills. The Energy Saving Tree Program helps to educate residents on picking the best tree for them.

"And it maximizes benefits for energy saving," said Michael Babineau, Vegetation Management Supervisor with Eversource. "So some trees provide shade in the summertime or wind break in the wintertime, and help reduce costs on their energy."

Eversource said the 'Right Tree, Right Place' mentality is important when planting new trees. The program's website made it easy for residents.

"It would provide back information on energy saving, cost benefits, and if it's compatible or not based on sun exposure, being near the power lines, and other factors," Babineau said. "It's a benefit for them as an individual resident, it's a benefit for the city to get more green canopy in an urban setting. And it's a benefit for Eversource to help educate people on the 'Right Tree, Right Place.'"

The trees were of many varieties, including fruit trees, shade trees, and other bushes.