MERRILLVILLE, Ind. - Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), a subsidiary of NiSource, Inc., has been named a Tree Line USA utility for the seventh consecutive year in recognition of its national leadership in caring for trees while meeting the Tree Line USA requirements. Governor Frank O'Bannon will recognize NIPSCO as a Tree Line USA utility at 1 p.m. on May 6 at the Governor's mansion, 4750 North Meridian St., Indianapolis, Ind.

In order to be recognized as a Tree Line USA utility, the company must meet certain requirements, including: providing quality tree care, offering annual worker training, furnishing tree planting and public education, and sponsoring Arbor Day activities. Last year, NIPSCO planted over 250 landscape-quality trees and sponsored 25 Arbor Day activities in communities throughout its service territory. The Tree Line USA program is sponsored annually by the National Arbor Day Foundation. A major objective of Tree Line USA is to promote natural pruning within the nation's utility companies. Natural pruning trains trees to grow away from utility wires and promotes general tree health.

"NIPSCO is committed to protecting our community's trees while providing reliable service at the same time," said Jim Barnhart, manager, Forestry Operations.

In addition to recognizing NIPSCO as a Tree Line USA utility, the Governor will recognize cities and towns in Indiana who are Tree Cities. NIPSCO has 17 Tree Cities in its service territory. The Tree City USA award recognizes cities and towns who have formed comprehensive tree management programs. During the event, guests will have the opportunity to observe and participate in old-time woodsman skills, tree-climbing skills, and learn practical information about tree care.

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO), a subsidiary of NiSource Inc., is a regulated utility that provides natural gas to nearly 700,000 customers and electricity to 416,000 customers across the northern third of Indiana. NIPSCO is the largest natural gas distribution company, and the second largest electric distribution company, in the state of Indiana. Information about NiSource Inc. and its subsidiaries is available via the Internet at www.nisource.com.