Iowa’s largest utility is “branching out” to help communities statewide grow through a tree-planting grant program. Donna Backstrom, an energy efficiency specialist with MidAmerican Energy, says the “Trees Please!” program started in 1996, and continues to be popular. Backstrom says it’s part of her job to help communities save money by saving electricity.Backstrom says 81 Iowa cities took part in the program last year. She says after applications are sent out at the end of this month, officials will review them and notify communities by mail in December, then grant money will be dispersed in January. Backstrom says another part of the “Trees Please!” program is tracking the progress and success of each community.The deadline to request an application is September 19th by calling 800-434-4017.