NEBRASKA CITY, Neb., April 29, 2011 — The Arbor Day Foundation has named Dominion Virginia Power a Tree Line USA utility for its practices aimed at protecting and enhancing America’s urban forests. It is the first year Dominion has earned the national recognition as a Tree Line USA utility.

“We are honored that Dominion Virginia Power is being recognized for the quality of our tree-trimming program,” said Paul D. Koonce, president and chief executive officer. “We recognize the important role healthy trees play in a community and take care to protect them as much as possible while ensuring reliable service for our customers.”

The Tree Line USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with individual state forestry agencies and honors utility companies that takes great measures to provide quality tree care. All Tree Line USA utilities must meet three requirements: A program of quality tree care; annual worker training in quality tree-care practices; and a tree planting and public education program.

“In addition to providing safe, efficient service, Tree Line USA utilities help protect and preserve community trees,” said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Tree Line USA utility companies have replaced the outdated line-clearance practice of topping trees and instead use natural pruning. This type of pruning trains trees to grow around power lines and retain more of their natural shape. The results are healthier trees and reduced clearing costs for utility companies because natural pruning does not have to be done as frequently as topping.”

Tree Line USAs include both investor-owned and public utilities.

Trees are a valuable asset to communities across America. Trees help reduce peak energy demand by shading homes and buildings. They also clean the air and water and increase property value when planted properly.

About the Arbor Day Foundation:

The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit, environmental and education organization of more than 1 million members, with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. More information on the Foundation and its programs can be found at www.arborday.org.

Dominion Virginia Power Media Contact:
Karl Neddenien, (804) 771-6115, Karl.R.Neddenien@dom.com 

Arbor Day Foundation Media Contact:
Mark Derowitsch, (402) 473-9563, mderowitsch@arborday.org