Unitil Hosting First Annual Tree Raffle Saturday

Unitil is hosting its first annual energy saving tree community event May 9, on the Kingston Plains along Main Street in Kingston, according to a press statement.

The event will present expert advice on the best trees to plant, games, giveaways and events for children. Twenty-five trees will be raffled off to Unitil customers for planting. The trees will be on site and can be taken home that day. Raffle winners will be able to use mapping software onsite to aid in determining the location on their property where, if planted, the treewould provide maximum energy savings.

Homeowners can also learn where they should plant trees for the best energy savings, and how to plant and maintain them, according to Unitil’s Sara Sankowich, system arborist.

“Trees are so important because they provide shade and comfort, reduce cooling cost, and contribute to the aesthetics of a community,” she said.

In addition, homeowners who had trees removed through Unitil’s vegetation management program and were promised replacement trees can pick up trees during the event. Sankowich said affected homeowners were notified ahead of time and they must select their tree online prior to pick up. They will also select their ideal planting location online, following the recommended guidelines for energy efficiency and line safety.

The event is free and open to the public; it will be held rain or shine from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We really encourage Unitil customers to join in, and enjoy an afternoon of fun kids’ activities and raffles,” added Sankowich.