Press Release

Alliant Energy Operation ReLeaf events planned in Iowa for fall 2009
Plant a tree. Save energy.

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – September 2, 2009 – Iowans looking for a cost-effective, yet eye-pleasing way to reduce home cooling and heating costs are encouraged to participate in Operation ReLeaf and plant a tree. 

Interstate Power and Light Company, an Alliant Energy Company (Alliant Energy), will sponsor six Operation ReLeaf events throughout the state of Iowa this fall. Operation ReLeaf is a residential tree-planting program that promotes long-term energy and natural resource conservation.

Through the program, more than 3,000 high quality, three-to eight-foot landscaping trees will be offered for just $25 each. The trees typically retail for $65 or more and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will be held in Winneshiek County on October 1. Order forms are available online at www.alliantenergy.com/releaf, or by calling the Iowa DNR at 515-281-6749.

“Encouraging residents to plant trees in their yard is an effective way to reduce energy costs and promote a healthy and aesthetically pleasing environment,” says Tom Aller, President - IPL. “We’re pleased to offer this opportunity to our customers and hope many will participate.”

Additional 2009 Operation ReLeaf events will be held in the following communities: Keokuk on October 3, Tama on October 8, Marion on October 10, Mason City on October 15 and Ames on October 22. Tree species offered will vary at each event and include shade trees, ornamentals and evergreens.

Operation ReLeaf is a partnership initiative funded by Alliant Energy and administered by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – Bureau of Forestry with assistance from several host County Conservation Boards, County Extension Offices and/or select Resource Conservation & Development areas.

Operation ReLeaf participants must be Alliant Energy customers. Advance order is recommended and purchase is limited to two trees per household. In the event there are additional trees available on distribution day, those trees will be released for purchase at that time.

Media contact: Nancy Craig (319) 786-4788