Volunteers Support Planting Project in Cape

Ameren Missouri participated with volunteers from other companies and organizations to plant more than 20 trees along the Cape LaCroix Trail, near the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau. The effort was in support of the 2019 Arbor Day observance. The project was part of a joint effort between the city's Keep Cape Beautiful Committee and the Tree Advisory Board. Laura Klipfel, customer relationship manager for Ameren Missouri's SEMO Division, is a board member on the Tree Advisory Board.

"My family and I enjoy nature and being outdoors," said Klipfel. "Serving as a board member and being involved with planting trees is one small way I can help give back to my community and help support our environment." Chris Nugent, from Ameren Missouri, also supported this project.

In addition to Ameren Missouri, volunteers came from the SEMO Horticulture Club, Missouri Department of Conservation, and the City of Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department. The group planted a mixture of oaks, dogwoods, persimmons, and service berries.

Combined with a $900 donation from Ameren Missouri to purchase the trees, the Keep Cape Beautiful Committee was awarded a $5,000 tree grant from the national affiliate, Keep America Beautiful, which made the tree planting event possible.

Cape Girardeau is in its 21st year as a Tree City USA member. This is the second year Ameren Missouri has sponsored tree planting in Cape Girardeau.