Alliant awards first 2 grants in industrial park tree program

The St. Martin Airport Plaza in Cedar Rapids and the 20 West Industrial Park in Dyersville are the first two industrial parks selected for a new Alliant Energy tree-planting program.

Alliant's Industrial Park Tree Grant Program is available for land developers and industrial parks currently being developed in Iowa communities served by Alliant Energy. The program was developed to encourage energy efficiency and environmental awareness while supporting economic growth.

The grant supported the planting of 25 red oak and sugar maple trees in Phase One of the Dyersville Economic Corporation's 20 West Industrial park.

The grant provided much-needed trees due to tree losses caused by flooding in Dyersville, according to to Dyersville Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Jacque Rahe. She said the trees will provide a lasting legacy for park tenants, their customers, the community and motorists passing on Highway 20.

Tom Slattery, director of the St. Martin Land Company in Cedar Rapids, said the grant for trees at St. Martin Airport Plaza provided a good opportunity to partner with Alliant, Hughes Landscaping and the Kirkwood Community College Horticulture staff to promote the benefits of trees within industrial and commercial areas.

Alliant will accept Industrial Park Tree Grant applications on an ongoing basis throughout the year, but will consider them for funding during a spring and fall grant-making cycle. The next application deadline is February 1, 2012. Applications are available by emailing trees@alliantenergy.com or calling the company at 1-866-255-4268.