Southern Conservation Trust Launches Tree Planting Initiative with QTS as Part of Greater Atlanta Data Center Development Project

Fayetteville, Georgia

"We are proud to support QTS's ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in the Southeast," said Chris Doane, President & CEO of the Fayetteville-based Southern Conservation Trust. "Planting native tree species is critically important, for many reasons, including boosting biodiversity by supporting other native flora and fauna and strengthening overall ecosystem resilience," We are thankful for QTS's leadership in sustainability and commitment to planting trees in our region."

This initiative will support planting a mix of 14 native canopy and understory tree species that closely align with an oak-hickory-pine forest community on a plot of preserved land near Fayetteville. Tree species to be planted include Shortleaf Pine, Northern Red Oak, Yellow Poplar, Downy Serviceberry, and American Persimmon, all of which would have been historically part of this property. In the coming months, SCT contractors will cover 20 acres on the preserve that will benefit the region by increasing habitat for birds, mammals, and reptiles; reducing ambient heat levels; reducing air pollution; improving filtration of nonpoint source pollution into the Towaliga River; and reducing monoculture habitat that must be mowed frequently to maintain.

"We are grateful to work with SCT to support and sustain shared resources in our local communities and surrounding environments," said Tag Greason, Chief Growth Officer at QTS. "Sustainable practices are a key component of our business operations, and this initiative is just the start of how we hope to positively contribute to the Fayetteville area."

Beyond donating trees, QTS also remains committed to volunteering with SCT on varying initiatives that support protecting public nature areas and land through stewardship and conservation as well as educating community members about nature in the Fayetteville area. The company recently supported improvements to SCT's Fayette Environmental Education Center through generous donations and employee volunteer work. The combination of QTS's giving and service illustrate the company's culture of prioritizing the stewardship of communities, partners, and customers.