Riviera Utilities has been recognized as a 2026 Tree Line USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, highlighting the utility’s efforts to balance reliable electric service with the preservation and care of urban forests.

The designation honors service providers that meet high standards in planting, maintaining and protecting trees while supporting safe energy delivery, a news release from the Foundation said. The release also said that Riviera Utilities is one of only three utilities in Alabama to receive the recognition.

The Arbor Day Foundation, a global nonprofit focused on inspiring people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, has planted more than 500 million trees across more than 60 countries since 1972 through a network of more than one million supporters and partners.

“Trees strengthen our communities and make our neighborhoods healthier in so many ways. But they need us to plant and care for them, which is why it is so important that utilities do their part to help urban forests thrive,” Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation Michelle Saulnier said in the release. “Riviera Utilities demonstrates that safe and reliable electricity doesn’t need to come at the expense of tree canopies. They are setting a positive example for their community and we’re proud to have them as part of our national network of forward-thinking service providers.”

Trees play a critical role in improving quality of life, helping clean the air, cool urban areas and support both physical and mental health. Strategically planted trees can also reduce energy demand by shading homes and businesses during peak usage, lowering costs for residents. Proper maintenance further supports reliable utility service by reducing the risk of downed lines during storms.

To qualify for the Tree Line USA designation, utilities must meet five core standards: following industry guidelines for quality tree care, providing annual worker training, sponsoring tree planting and public education programs, maintaining tree-based energy conservation efforts and participating in Arbor Day celebrations.

“Riviera’s Vegetation Management Department goes far beyond their day-to-day responsibilities as utility professionals. They are dedicated stewards of our community who deeply value the natural beauty of our environment and are constantly seeking innovative ways to strengthen and protect the place we call home,” said Brian Skelton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Riviera Utilities. “We are especially honored to join only two other utilities in Alabama with the Tree Line USA designation. We are incredibly proud of our team’s commitment and grateful to the Arbor Day Foundation for recognizing their outstanding work.”

The Tree Line USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters. More information is available at www.arborday.org.