Duke Energy Florida’s tree giveaway encourages customers to plant the right tree in the right place to keep the power flowing

Press release from Duke Energy

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Duke Energy Florida will give away 1,000 free trees to its customers as part of its ongoing collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation.

On Friday, Jan. 16, which is also Florida Arbor Day, Duke Energy Florida customers can request a free tree online at https://get.arborday.org/dukeenergy, while supplies last.

How it works

The 1-gallon trees are shipped directly to customers’ homes with planting and care instructions and are expected to be delivered in time for National Arbor Day in April. Available tree species include the sweetbay magnolia, crape myrtle, live oak, ‘Shoal Creek’ vitex, and Flordaking Peach.

The annual tree giveaway is part of the company’s program to encourage Floridians to plant the right tree in the right place, which helps to reduce risks to nearby power lines.

“When the right tree is planted in the right place, it can help provide shade and cleaner air, while reducing vulnerabilities to the power lines nearby,” said Melissa Seixas, president, Duke Energy Florida. “This year’s giveaway of 1,000 trees is another way we’re working with the communities and customers we serve to grow healthier tree canopies and support long-term power reliability.”

Tree care practices around power lines

Throughout the year, Duke Energy Florida certified arborists and environmental specialists work with skilled contractors to identify potential hazards, trim trees, apply herbicides, and remove trees that pose a threat to power lines or could pose a threat in the future.

For nearly 20 years, Duke Energy Florida has been recognized for its tree management practices by the Arbor Day Foundation and has provided more than 15,000 free trees since 2017.

Right Tree, Right Place

• Find the Right Tree – Before selecting your tree, make sure to consider the long-term size, maturity, and shape of the tree.
• Choose the Right Place – If you’re planting trees on your property, note the location of any nearby power lines. Keeping trees away from power lines helps keep fallen or loose debris farther away from the lines to speed power restoration efforts.
• Call Before You Dig – Duke Energy Florida and other utilities can show you where cables and pipes are. Before you dig, call 811 or submit your request online at www.Sunshine811.com.
• Keep Ground/Pad Transformers Clear – Keep the transformer (green box typically found in front of homes) clear at all times to allow for maintenance and repairs. Maintain a clearance of 10 feet in the front and 3 feet on all sides.
• Stay Safe Around Power Lines – Never attempt to trim trees around power lines yourself. These lines are energized and extremely dangerous.

For information about planning and planting vegetation around electrical facilities, visit Duke Energy’s Right Tree Right Place website.