The City of Big Rapids has recently been awarded a tree planting grant from Consumers Energy and Michigan Forestry and Park Association, Inc (MFPA) Community Street and Boulevard Tree Planting Grant Program.

As a result, various species of Michigan trees were planted in multiple areas within the city limits. Big Rapids is incredibly grateful for Consumers Energy's commitment to programs that promote conservation efforts in rural communities.

"The City of Big Rapids has a proud history of being recognized as part of the National Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA. We are grateful to receive this grant from Consumer Energy, which will allow us to plant more beautiful trees in our area." Public Works Director Heather Bowman said. "We highly value Consumer Energy's commitment to communities like ours and forward-thinking programs like this."

The grant of $2,800 enabled the planting of 10 trees this Fall ranging in species such as Crabapple, Linden and Oak.