CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- The city of Charlottesville Utilities Department is offering free trees to city residents.

It is providing 200 free trees to customers who are residents of the city as part of the Arbor Day Foundation's Energy-Saving Trees Program.

Properly planted trees can help to reduce the amount of energy a home uses by providing a barrier to the cold winter winds and delivering shade in the summer.  A single tree that grows over time can save a homeowner up to 20 percent on energy costs.

This year's available tree varieties include serviceberry, black gum, ironwood, willow oak, and tulip poplar.

"To recognize that people can reduce their energy bills, as well as being more energy efficient. And we also use it to vote on safe digging practices because when they get on the portal, it'll show them how to place the tree so they're not in conflict with other utilities," said Lauren Hildebrand, the Director of Utilities for Charlottesville.

Tree reservations are limited to one tree per address and are made on a first-come, first-served basis beginning March 6.

For more information, click here.