American Electric Power Ohio’s (AEP Ohio’s) forestry crew routinely trims tree branches near power lines and equipment to prevent power outages. AEP Ohio’s new program will donate those branches and trimmings to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds, a nonprofit safari zoo and conservation center managed by the Columbus Zoo.

Through AEP Ohio’s “Trim to Treat” program, fresh tree trimmings, branches, and twigs – also known as browse – are provided to zoo animals of all shapes and sizes. They are beneficial for an animal’s diet and provide enrichment, whether it’s for a giraffe munching on some fresh leaves as part of its daily diet or a beaver chomping at a branch to help support dental health and its ever-growing teeth.

"'Trim to Treat' really is a unique and important program that directly benefits some animals at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. Branches and tree trimmings from our neighboring communities will be repurposed and recycled for the animals in our care," said Dr. Jan Ramer, interim senior vice president of animal care and conservation at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. “We’re appreciative of the support from AEP Ohio and our community as together we work to creatively use these resources in ways that positively impact the animals—many of which are threatened and endangered.”

The “Trim to Treat” partnership will help the Columbus Zoo save money by reducing the need to source browse elsewhere. AEP Ohio forestry crews have an approved list of tree species from the Columbus Zoo that they’ll identify, bundle, and deliver by the truckload after they’ve been trimmed. Deliveries will be made twice a week to the Columbus Zoo and at least monthly to The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio.

“We’re proud to donate fresh, local browse to the animals at the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. It’s really the perfect pairing — utilizing something we already have on hand to make a difference,” said AEP Ohio Region Forestry Manager Dale Hopkins.

AEP Ohio assesses and trims trees on a four-year cycle to help minimize power outages for its customers, while also keeping in mind the health and beauty of the trees in communities across Ohio.

Watch AEP Ohio’s video to learn more about this partnership and the program. You also can learn more about this program on AEP Ohio’s website.

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