Atlantic, Massena, Clarinda and Creston are among 25 communities from across Iowa to be awarded “Branching Out” grants for tree planting this fall. The grants from Alliant Energy amount to $132,000 altogether, and is in collaboration with Trees Forever. The funds will allow for the purchase of trees and their planting by volunteers. Experts from Trees Forever make sure the projects improve energy efficiency, as well as teach volunteers to plant and care for trees correctly.

Atlantic received a $2,800 grant to plant trees near the Atlantic Nursing and Rehab Center. Massena received $1,000 for planting on donated, vacated land from the City of Massena. Clarinda will use its $4,600 in funds to plant trees along a new trail in the main city park, and Creston received $10,000 for planting of trees on the campus of Southwestern Community College, Highlakes Gun Club, Graceland Cemetery, a walking and biking trail, and Crowmell City Park.