LG&E and KU accepting grant applications to fund qualified tree-planting projects | Business

From Brian Phillips, Manager of External Communications, LG&E and KU

Louisville, Ky. — Applications are now available for "Plant for the Planet" grants from Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company to fund qualified tree-plantings by nonprofit or government entities.

The program awards matching grants in amounts of $500 to $5,000 to organizations with a history of successful tree plantings in the LG&E and KU service territories.

"Plant for the Planet has helped sustain and beautify a variety of sites, from mature woodlands to busy highways," said Laura Douglas, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and Community Affairs for LG&E and KU. "Tree plantings are part of our commitment to environmental stewardship and we look forward to supporting additional efforts in 2013."

Applications and program information will be available for download until December 14 at www.lge-ku.com/plantfortheplanet. All applications must be postmarked by December 14 to be eligible for consideration. In February 2013, applicants will receive a letter announcing the status of their proposal.

Proposals must clearly state project objectives, anticipated results and how the project will improve the environment. Plant for the Planet funds only support non-invasive tree species and all applicants must demonstrate that mature trees resulting from their efforts will not interfere with utility lines—consistent with LG&E and KU's "Right Tree in the Right Place" program.

Since its launch in 2009, the program has supported the planting of more than 20,000 trees in the LG&E and KU service territory, which includes 93 Kentucky counties and five in Virginia. Plantings have occurred in a range of settings that offer public access, including parks, nature preserves as well as urban and suburban places.

The program is modeled after the United Nations' "Plant for the Planet: Billion Tree Campaign" to promote the planting of more than 1 billion trees annually by individuals, communities and businesses worldwide.