Free Trees for Community Projects
Photo Credit: Victoria J. Cromwell
F
orest ReLeaf of Missouri will soon be accepting applications for Project CommuniTree, a free tree program for community plantings. More than 5,000 trees and shrubs of over 40 native species will be available this fall. EVERYONE, including schools, scouting groups, parks, municipalities, nonprofits, churches and neighborhoods, is welcome to submit an application for free trees, provided the trees are planted in the region on public or nonprofit common ground.
In 2010, Forest ReLeaf allocated over 9,000 trees to community planting projects across the state. With the help of many volunteers, Forestry Programs Manager Mike Walsh cares for each seeding until its large enough for transplanting. The trees are grown three-gallon containers and range from three to six feet tall. The majority of the trees are native shade tree species. Baldcypress, flowering dogwood, vernal witchhazel and many varieties of oak are just a few of the available species. Additionally, Forest ReLeaf provides planting instructions and advice to those who need assistance selecting the best species for the planting site. If you are interested in coordinating a planting project for your community this fall, please visit www.moreleaf.org and download a Project CommuniTree application. The trees are available for pick up at CommuniTree Gardens in Creve Coeur Park beginning in mid- to late-September. Applicants agree to mulch, water and care for the trees. To find out more, please contact info@moreleaf.org or call 314-533-5323 (or toll-free 1-888-473-5323.) Major support for Project CommuniTree is provided by Ameren Missouri, the Missouri Department of Conservation, and St. Louis County Parks. Courtesy of the Missouri Community Forestry Council from the Cityscape Fall 2011 Newsletter. 30 Water `N Woods™
October 2011
www.WaterNWood.com