Earth Day Celebrated by Planting Trees with Duke Energy and the Division of Forestry

The theme for Earth Day this year was “Invest in Our Planet.” In partnership with Duke Energy and the DNR Division of Forestry, the INRF spent the day investing in Indiana’s forests as part of the Indiana Tree Project.

Dozens of volunteers, including Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb and Duke Energy Indiana State President Stan Pinegar, joined the efforts to grow Indiana’s forests by planting 5,000 trees within Ravinia State Forest.

Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb and Duke Energy Indiana State President Stan Pinegar.

The tree planting, originally slated for 2020, was delayed due to COVID-19. The energy and excitement within the group of volunteers was palpable as they gathered their seedlings and spread out to begin the planting.

“Duke Energy shares the Holcomb administration’s commitment to protecting and preserving Indiana’s natural resources, and we were honored to have Indiana’s First Lady join us,” Pinegar said. “Volunteerism is an integral part of who we are as a company, and our employees and retirees were proud to take part in this effort to build a better future for our customers and the communities we serve.”

The sunny Friday morning was spent planting northern red oak, white oak, and walnut seedlings supplied by the Division of Forestry. The trees, once they begin to mature, will play a vital role in habitat development. The dense hardwood forest will one day provide cover and forage to a variety of game and nongame species. Additionally, forests are critical in providing clean air, water, and soil.

The tree plantings also provide a valuable opportunity for volunteers to learn about Indiana’s public lands. Throughout the day, the group spent time discussing the importance of forest management and other conservation topics with DNR staff.

Duke Energy employees work together to plant a tree.

“The DNR sincerely appreciates the vision and partnership that the Duke Energy Foundation brings to the Indiana Tree Project as it will provide next-level recreational opportunities that so many Hoosiers seek,” said John Seifert, director of the Division of Forestry.

The Earth Day event continued a string of planned projects at Ravinia State Forest. Duke Energy previously awarded the INRF a $150,000 grant designated for the property. The projects include improvements to three parking lots and the construction of two shelter houses that will have electric service and running water. Other planned updates include the installation of signage and drainage to the trail system and adding picnic tables and grills.

Just 40 miles southwest of Indianapolis, Ravinia provides numerous recreational opportunities, including hunting; wildlife viewing; hiking; and gathering wild berries, nuts, and mushrooms.

“Duke Energy continues to be a committed partner to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation and Indiana DNR,” said Jody Kress, INRF executive director. “Their generous support of conservation will help us preserve Indiana’s natural legacy for generations to come.”

The support and commitment of volunteers provided by corporations are vital to the success of the Indiana Tree Project and other INRF events. With the leadership of forestry experts from DNR, the tree plantings allow us to make a meaningful impact on Indiana’s public lands in just a handful of hours.

Through the Indiana Tree Project, we are helping Indiana’s forests grow, one tree at a time. We welcome organizations and individuals that wish to get involved. Consider contributing to the Indiana Tree Project today. With your donation, you will receive an official tree certificate that includes coordinates to the location where your tree will be planted.