Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative
Contributor
Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) passed out free trees for Arbor Day on Saturday, Jan. 18. The giveaway prompted SVEC members to line up early in the morning so they could have an opportunity to get a tree. In partnership with Nobles Greenhouse and Nursery, SVEC entered its seventh year of providing these trees to customers. This year, the co-op passed out 130 southern Red Maples. The trees were planted in three gallon pots, allowing for them to be transported safely to their new home. According to SVEC’s social media, this native tree provides beautiful fall colors and is considered a favorite among birds and wildlife for its abundant seed source and winter blooms. They did, however, caution that, because the tree is capable of reaching 60 to 75 feet in height, southern Red Maple trees must be planted further than 75 feet away from overhead power lines. SVEC opened the gates at 9 a.m., and by 9:30 a.m., the trees were gone. Chuck Tompkins and his wife, Denny, assisted with the traffic flow as customers entered the premises.
