ATC

American Transmission Co. keeps communities green by awarding $60,000 for vegetation plantings

Program advocates electric reliability by promoting plantings outside the right-of-way

PEWAUKEE, Wis. – American Transmission Co. recently awarded $60,000 to 39 communities in its service area to plant trees and other vegetation through its Community Planting Program, which is part of ATC’s Grow Smart ^® initiative. Trees and other vegetation purchased by communities through the Community Planting Program reinforces this initiative by supporting the planting of tall-growing trees and other vegetation outside of high-voltage transmission line rights-of-way.

“Since this program began in 2013, ATC has awarded nearly $190,000 to more than 130 communities for planting projects,” said Mark Davis, executive vice president and chief operating officer. “Trees are an important part of our environment. Tall-growing vegetation needs to be kept away from transmission lines to keep the public safe and the system reliable, and this program makes that initiative a win-win for everyone.”

To qualify, community recipients committed to complying with ATC’s maintenance standards for all current and future planting plans and urban forestry activities near high-voltage electric transmission lines. In addition to Norway, Mich., the following Wisconsin communities received amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000 for planting projects on public property where ATC facilities exist: