Alliant Energy Branching Out
Branching Out is a nationally recognized and award-winning tree planting program in which Alliant Energy, Trees Forever and your community work together to plan, fund and implement community tree planting projects. The program is designed to encourage energy efficiency, environmental awareness and community stewardship in Iowa.
The Branching Out program is offered exclusively to Iowa communities where Alliant Energy provides electric and/or natural gas service. The utility provides grants up to $5,000 per community.
Qualifying projects would plant trees near buildings using electricity, including street tree plantings in public right-of-ways in front of homes or buildings or located near public buildings such as schools.
Planting locations must be within the Alliant Energy service area and receive energy-saving benefits from the new trees. The grants cover funding for landscape-sized trees, but not seedlings, mulch, stakes, guards and other related items.
Trees Forever administers and facilitates the program, providing organizational, educational, planning and planting support through our network of experienced field staff.
To apply for the Branching Out program and funding, you must complete the application form and submit a project plan and proposal letter. The application process is competitive, and preference is given to applicants with thorough and complete documentation that meets all program guidelines. Project grants are awarded once a year in the Fall, but the proposed plantings may occur the following Fall or Spring.