Evanston, IL – May 22, 2019 - Dynegy is furthering the City of Evanston’s tree canopy restoration efforts at Raymond Park with a donation of 40 trees to help replace those lost due to the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer and Dutch Elm Disease. Evanston Mayor Stephen Hagerty, along with representatives from Dynegy and Chicago Region Trees Initiative, marked the donation with a ceremonial tree planting.
“We take pride in donating trees to communities, like Evanston, which have forward-thinking sustainability goals and an immediate need for trees,” said Brad Watson, Dynegy community affairs senior director. “By planting trees now, we’re helping ensure that the next generation is able to enjoy this recreational space for years to come.”
The donated trees – including American beech, flowering dogwood, red bud, and black gum species – will further diversify Raymond Park’s tree canopy.
“Trees are the building blocks of vibrant communities,” said Lydia Scott, Chicago Region Trees Initiative director. “When we’re able to bring our knowledge and resources together to focus on sustainability, we’re able to make meaningful and measurable improvements in the health of our urban forests and the quality of life for those in our communities.”
Since 2002, Dynegy and its sister companies have provided nearly 300,000 trees to various partner communities. The donated trees have helped generate environmental savings and health benefits for municipalities and residents valued at approximately $37 million annually during the life of these trees.