The Arbor Day Foundation recognized Morristown Utilities as a 2026 Tree Line USA for its commitment to balancing the delivery of reliable electricity with the preservation of urban forests and the profound layers of benefits trees provide communities.

Morristown Utilities was recognized at the Arbor Day event at Russellville Elementary School last week, and were joined by the City of Morristown who was also recognized for its efforts with a Tree City USA designation. City Administrator Andrew Ellard said taking care of local trees is a shared value.

“Robust utility infrastructure is critical for any thriving community,” Ellard said. “And healthy, natural vegetation contributes to our overall quality of life. The two interests don’t naturally work in concert, which is why we value the opportunity to coordinate projects with Morristown Utilities – so that we can best serve the citizens of Morristown with both quality utility services and a healthy, vibrant environment.”

The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. Its network of more than a million supporters and partners has helped the organization plant more than 500 million trees in forests and communities across more than 60 countries since 1972. The Tree Line USA program recognizes service providers that maintain a high standard of care when planting or maintaining trees on the job.

“Trees strengthen our communities and make our neighborhoods healthier in so many ways. But they need us to plant and care for them, which is why it is so important that utilities do their part to help urban forests thrive,” said Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Morristown Utilities demonstrates that safe and reliable electricity doesn’t need to come at the expense of tree canopies. They are setting a positive example for their community and we’re proud to have them as part of our national network of forward-thinking service providers.”

Trees make communities more livable. They clean the air, cool cities, and provide physical and mental health benefits for people. When the right trees are planted in the right places, they also shade homes and businesses and help reduce the demand on energy during peak service hours, ultimately lowering energy costs for residents. The proper maintenance of trees can also increase the reliability of utility services during strong storms, as properly maintained trees result in fewer downed lines.

“We take a lot of pride in caring for trees the proper way. Our work is focused on keeping the community safe and maintaining reliable service, and also on protecting the long-term health and appearance of the trees we trim. Our crews are trained to follow specific industry standards, and we try to balance dependable utility service with responsible tree care,” said Jeff Watson, Right-of-Way Foreman for Morristown Utilities.

To qualify as a Tree Line USA, utilities must uphold five core principles including following industry standards for quality tree care, providing annual worker training in best tree care practices, sponsoring a tree planting and public education program, maintaining a tree-based energy conservation program and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.