May 12, 2021

Mother Nature got a boost from our FirstEnergy Green Teams, with team members and other employees planting thousands of trees in recognition of Earth Day and Arbor Day.

Employees gathered at parks and nature reserves across our service territory during the week-long period from April 22 (Earth Day) through April 30 (Arbor Day). Events included tree plantings and sapling giveaways.

“Since many Earth Day tree-planting events were canceled last year due to the pandemic, we’re excited to come back strong in 2021,” said George Farah, vice president, Utility Services, and executive sponsor of FirstEnergy’s tree-planting program. “While we set an initial 2021 goal of 10,000 trees, we’re optimistic we will be able to plant many more throughout the year.”

Some of the larger events were held at the Cleveland MetroParks in Ohio, Wood County 4-H campgrounds in Parkersburg, W.Va., and ClearWater Conservancy in State College, Pa.

FirstEnergy has 10 Green Teams comprised of  employees who volunteer their time and talents to support a wide variety of environmental initiatives, including partnerships with state park systems, watershed and recycling groups, garden clubs, schools and other environmentally focused organizations. The Green Team initiative is an important part of our efforts to reduce FirstEnergy’s carbon footprint, promote responsible use of natural resources and further the advancement of sustainable practices.

JCP&L team members plant trees at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Long Hill Township, N.J.

Members of a Mon Power Green Team arrive at Audra State Park (W.Va.) for a day of tree planting.

Fort Martin Power Station employees planted trees and improved​ trails at Coopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia. L. to r.: Cameron Flohr, superintendent, Production; Kevin Chisler, manager, Technical Services; Kris Woodall, supervisor, Generation Warehouse