Industrial Credit Union program resulting in more trees being planted

DAVE GALLAGHER - THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

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Nearly 2,500 Industrial Credit Union members have elected to receive E-Statements, resulting in more trees being planted and much less paper being consumed.

As part of a Project Preservation initiative started last year, Industrial Credit Union is planting a tree for each member who signs up for E-Statements rather than paper statements detailing their account activity. Industrial Credit Union added 500 members to E-Statements in the past year. The credit union is utilizing the expertise and volunteer crews of the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association to plant trees and shrubs along salmon-bearing streams at sites throughout the county.

The following watersheds have benefited from riparian restoration projects sponsored by Industrial Credit Union and involving community volunteers, including credit union employees:

Bellingham: Whatcom Creek, Connelly Creek, Padden Creek and Squalicum Creek.

Ferndale: California Creek and Schell Creek.

Lynden: Silver Springs Creek.

Van Zandt: Black Slough.

With 2,500 members receiving E-Statements, approximately 60,000 sheets of paper are saved annually - the equivalent of seven 40-foot-tall trees, according to environment organization Conservatree.