Communities can "spruce up" their publicly-owned properties with the Ameren Illinois Right Tree Right Place Program.
Ameren assists municipalities by awarding grants that can help plant trees near city halls, schools, and libraries. Townships, villages, and cities can also partner with the company's vegetation management team to identify hazardous trees to be removed.
According to Ameren, properly placed trees can save energy by providing summer shade and winter warmth with windbreaks.
The grants would also provide communities with a minimum of $500 for tree planting and removal projects. They would also assist with existing tree maintenance and developing a community-wide tree management plan, all while obtaining a Tree City USA certification.
Applications are open from now until August, with funds awarded in November.
For more information or to apply, visit the Ameren Illinois website.
