Monday, June 27, 2011

Trees and Operation Cool Shade

My friend, Sharlet, posted a comment about how I need a hammock.  She's right, and yes, I've thought of that, but I won't be able to have one until the trees I plant are strong enough to support me.  I replied to her comment (only 2 weeks later!), but I felt that I should share my tree knowledge with you.

My electric company here in Arizona (Trico Electric) has a program called Operation Cool Shade, in which utility subscribers can purchase up to three shade trees at reduced rates from Trico Electric, on the condition that the trees are planted in such a manner around the house that at maturity, they will shade and therefore cool the houses down, thus reducing electricity costs (interesting that the electric company would sponsor a program designed to reduce the consumption of it's primary service/product).  There is another program sponsored by Tucson Electric called Trees for Tucson - same thing, different company, different name.

I ordered three trees at $11 per tree.  If I attend a tree-growing workshop (I'm going to - 4 hours on a Saturday, too easy), I get $5 off per tree.  I'll therefore get three Arizona Ash trees for $18 total instead of $33 - which is significantly less than what I could get from a nursery or Home Depot.  I won't be able to pick them up until November, but that gives me an opportunity to focus on other backyard projects.  Like raking and spreading gravel  :(

Anyhooooo....if any of you are interested in planting trees, check with your local utilities - they may have a similar program.  I highly recommend it.

P.S. I know, I know...run-on sentences.  Got it.  I'll work on it.

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