MTEMC’s ‘Tree Wise’ visits local schools

Middle Tennessee Electric representatives recently distributed approximately 5,000 tree saplings to some local third- and fifth-graders.

The tree handout was part of Middle Tennessee Electric’s Tree Wise Program, which aims to teach local third- and fifth-grade students about trees.

“The students were extremely excited to receive their trees,” Heritage Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Robin Enders said. “We really enjoyed the presentation and the curriculum for our students.”

The effort, which began in early March, included classroom activities and discussions on how to transport, plant and care for trees.

“This year in the Williamson County schools, we partnered with Keep Williamson Beautiful to help spread the word about proper tree care and placement,” Middle Tennessee Electric Community Relations Coordinator Cathy Mitchell said. “With their message of keeping the community clean and green, it was a great addition to our presentation about trees.”

MTEMC also used the opportunity to teach kids the importance of not planting trees near its power lines.

“We want to teach kids planting trees under power lines can disrupt service and lead to possible tree removal,” Right-of-Way Specialist Michael Johnson said, “and we don’t want them climbing trees under or near the lines.”

The students were given an Amur Maple to take home and care for.

“We gave each child a tree sapling to take home and plant,” Johnson said. “We hope the children can do this project with their families and enjoy a family learning experience.”

Posted on March 23, 2010.

 

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