Proactive tree-trimming work is helping Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) customers experience fewer power outages and more reliable service while providing branches to local zoos through the Branch to Browse Program.
A business partner trimming trees in South Bend that will be delivered to the Potawatomi Zoo.
Branches and leaves collected during tree-trimming work are delivered to the Fort Wayne Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend. The donations make a significant impact, especially at the Potawatomi Zoo, where browse provides essential nutrition and enrichment year-round for more than 30 species, including giraffes, okapi, kudu, sloths and colobus monkeys. The zoo’s giraffe herd alone consumes the equivalent of a medium-sized tree every week.
"We value our relationship with I&M and specifically the Branch to Browse Program. This is a partnership that is truly a win-win for all, providing browse to our varied animal collection, which can be costly, while improving the essential service I&M provides to the community,” said Josh Sisk, executive director of the Potawatomi Zoo. “We are proud to be a part of this collaboration that highlights our two organizations' mutual mission to be good stewards of the environment.”
Since launching in 2021, I&M's Branch to Browse Program has delivered 8,640 cubic yards of branches and leaves to the Fort Wayne Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. That's the equivalent of 480 truckloads of browse — enough vegetation to cover a football field approximately four feet deep.
Behind every truckload of browse is tree-trimming work that's making a difference for I&M customers. Proactive, data-driven tree trimming is helping keep the power flowing so customers can stay comfortable and connected. Over the past four years, tree-related outages have decreased 25% across I&M's service area including
Giraffe eating browse from I&M donatation.
reductions of 41% in the greater Fort Wayne area and 35% in the South Bend area. During that same period, the length of time customers have been without power due to tree-related issues has decreased by 55%.
“Our customers trust us to keep the lights on so they can focus on what matters most,” said Katie Runkle, I&M Vice President of External Affairs and Customer Experience. “Through this partnership, we're reducing outages while supporting local zoos that families know, love and visit year after year. It's a simple way to make a positive difference for our customers and the communities we serve.”
If tree work is planned near a customer's home or business, I&M provides advance notice whenever possible. A work planner may visit the property to discuss the planned work, and customers who are unavailable will receive information on how to contact the project team.
Keeping contact information up to date is one of the best ways customers can stay informed about planned work, outages and restoration efforts. Customers can verify and update their account information at IndianaMichiganPower.com/Account.