Furthering Southwestern Illinois College’s tree diversification efforts and sustainability goals, Homefield Energy is donating 20 trees to the school to assist with replacing trees lost due to the spread of the emerald ash borer and Dutch elm disease. SWIC President Nick Mance, along with college staff and students, local officials, and representatives from Homefield Energy will commemorate the donation with a ceremonial tree planting.

The Ceremonial Tree Planting will take place Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 12:45 p.m. at the SWIC Belleville Campus Information Sciences Building, 2500 Carlyle Ave., Belleville, IL 62221

“Southwestern Illinois College has a long tradition of supporting the environment from our arboretum to our LEED Gold Certified Liberal Arts Complex,” said SWIC President Nick Mance. “A donation from Homefield Energy to purchase trees only enhances our beautiful campus and furthers our “green” initiatives.”

The donated trees – including willow, magnolia, oak, red bud, pine, dogwood, and maple, among other species – will further diversify the school’s tree population.

“As a company, we take pride in helping the communities and organizations we serve meet their sustainability goals,” said Caroline Atkins, Homefield Energy community affairs manager. “Trees have numerous ecological benefits, but they also strengthen, grow, and beautify our communities. We hope these trees will have a lasting impact and further enhance the quality of life for SWIC students, faculty, and alumni.” 

Since 2002, Homefield Energy, and its sister companies, have provided nearly 300,000 trees to various partner communities. The donated trees have helped generate environmental savings and health benefits for municipalities and residents valued at approximately $37 million annually during the life of these trees.

Interested in donating additional trees to SWIC? Trees can be donated to the college by contacting the SWIC Foundation at Foundation@swic.edu or 618-235-2700, ext. 5215.