Trade-a-Tree
GRU provides native hardwoods to replace trees that present an electrical safety or reliability hazard
GRU's Trade-A-Tree program helps you choose trees suitable for planting around electrical wires. When trees are properly planted, they clean the air, reduce noise levels and help save electricity by shading windows, walls and air conditioners. Trees planted in the wrong location or trees with structural defects can create safety hazards or cause service outages. This includes trees near power lines, public rights-of-way and utility easements.
If we identify a problem tree (greater than 8" in diameter),we will contact you to discuss the removal of the tree and issue a tree voucher to you redeemable for a compatible species. This program does not address problem trees next to house service lines.
We are proud to announce our recognition by The National Arbor Day Foundation in 2003 as a Tree Line USA utility for the fourth year. The Tree Line USA Program includes both investor-owned and public utilities and recognizes utilities that meet three requirements: a program of quality tree care, annual worker training in quality tree care practices, and a tree planting and public education program.
TREE-mendous Appreciation Day!
Saturday, May 3rd, 2008 at 7:30AM
Celebrate National Arbor Day and beautify Gainesville by planting two trees or shrubs courtesy of GRU!
This annual program helps replace some of the tree canopy that we must remove to maintain safe and reliable electric service. Here's how it works:
Where to go?
- GRU's Millhopper Training Facility: corner of NW 43rd Street and NW 53rd Avenue across from Hunter’s Crossing Publix Shopping Center
- Pre-event parking at Trinity United Church
- Customers can enter from NW 53rd Avenue and follow the driveway past the church to the rear parking lot. GPD Officers will direct traffic.
Who can participate?
- All GRU residential electric customers only.
- Apartments and commercial businesses are not eligible.
- Each RESIDENTIAL GRU customer can pick up two three-gallon trees or shrubs.
- These are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PICK UP TREES OR SHRUBS FOR ANYONE BUT YOURSELF.
What to bring?
- Photo ID and a recent GRU bill will be needed to receive plants.
Need assistance?
- Elderly or handicapped customers will be served by a “ONE STOP SHOP” catering to their needs with parking, selecting and taking plants to their vehicles.
- There will be staff on hand to answer any tree planting questions customers may have.
Since 1991, this program has helped to add color and wildlife habitat throughout our community. For a complete list of trees and shrubs that will be available on May 3 click here. For additional information about tree/shrub species please visit www.floridata.com.
Wood Chip Recycling Program
GRU makes available free, for its electric customers, wood chips generated from its trimming operations along the power lines. Find out more about our wood chip recycling program.
