Mar 30, 2021 | Environment
Spring is upon us. And what better way to show our love of the environment than planting a tree? There’s just something about watching a tree adapt to all four seasons and grow right before our eyes. But before we get caught up in the beauty of nature, we must do a bit of research and take safety precautions before we pull out the shovels and start digging.
Here are a few tips for safe and successful tree prep and planting:
Keep tree roots in a cool place until ready to plant. Add water to moisten the roots, as needed.
Location, location, location – plan the spacing and location of your tree. And make sure it’s far away from any PPL power lines. If a tree is planted near power lines, eventually it may need to be trimmed or removed to keep your power reliable and the grid safe.
Call 811 before you dig! Know what’s below. It’s important to call 811 at least 3 business days before your project to avoid digging into any underground utility lines.
Consider using mulch (shredded bark or wood chips), around your tree to prevent damage to its roots.
For more information and a comprehensive guide to selecting, planting and caring for a new tree, visit www.arborday.org
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
As any teacher will tell you, the transition to a virtual environment has been a challenge. That’s why we’re stepping up to ease the burden and connect students with the resources they need to thrive.
Through a partnership with Smithsonian Science Education Center, Da Vinci Science Center, and the Allentown School District, we successfully launched a STEM literacy series for fourth and fifth grade students.
STEM – which stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math” – is critical as it prepares students for future success in both school and their careers.
To kick-off this initiative, we funded a professional development training with teachers so they could successfully launch the STEM program for roughly 2,500 students. Fourth graders learn about energy in the home, while fifth grade students are studying environmental energy. The great thing about this program is students receive a STEM package of their own, including a textbook and science kit. These resources are for the students to keep at home and share with their families after the 6-week lesson is complete.
We’re proud to play a small part in preventing STEM learning loss for these students during such a difficult time. Here’s to the next generation of STEM leaders!
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
In 2018 when we agreed to grant $100,000 to the Susquehanna Health Foundation toward an “ambulance bus,” it was an exciting and innovative idea. But this year, we saw that idea and vision come to life.
Now, this climate-controlled, 15 passenger, ambulance bus will be used for a variety of functions, all contributing to the health and safety of the community. The goal is to reach residents across 12 counties, 7 of which are within our territory, through paramedic and firefighter training and drills for emergency responders. It’s already been put to good use, delivering COVID19 vaccines to senior citizens in Williamsport, Lycoming County.
Since its founding in 2015, the PPL Foundation has contributed $15 million to organizations across our 29-county region. We’re proud to play a small part in preparing for the unique healthcare needs of this area, while supporting two of the PPL Foundation’s major focuses: education and sustainable communities.
We’re looking forward to seeing the ambulance bus in action!
