OUC in the news   Press/media contacts   Publication library   Knowledge Center   More about OUC		OUC News Release For Immediate Release   return to archive March 4, 2003 Paul Dillon   Arbor Day Foundation Honors OUC For Exceptional Tree-Care Program Orlando (March 4, 2003) – For the fifth consecutive year, OUC—The Reliable One has been named a Tree Line USA Utility by the National Arbor Day Foundation. The award recognizes utilities that trim trees near power lines with exceptional care, provide annual tree-care training for employees and provide tree-education programs for the public. The award is sponsored in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters. "Your utility's efforts in meeting the Tree Line USA requirements not only help provide beautiful trees for the future, but also result in long-term operational savings for your utility," says John Rosenow, president of the National Arbor Day Foundation. The nonprofit group is dedicated to tree planting, conservation and environmental stewardship. OUC has developed a comprehensive tree management program that combines careful trimming practices with the use of growth regulators that "train" trees to grow around wires and retain more of their natural form. "OUC wouldn't be Florida's most reliable utility without a well-managed tree-care program," says Bob Haven, OUC's general manager and CEO. "Being named a Tree Line USA Utility again this year recognizes that it is possible to be tree friendly while at the same time ensuring adequate space for power lines." Established in 1923 and owned by the citizens of Orlando, OUC—The Reliable One provides electric and water services to more than 190,000 customers in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties.