November 7, 2022
The recently created Tree Tenders Volunteer program held its third and final tree planting for the fall 2022 season on Saturday, November 5th.
The Tree Tenders planted trees in three of Richmond’s most heat-vulnerable neighborhoods, Baxter, North Richmond, and the West Depot District. Between these neighborhoods, 33 trees were planted by 13 volunteers. The Tree Tenders program aims to increase the planting capacity for street trees, educate volunteers on proper tree planting techniques, lower air and surface temperatures, enhance stormwater management, improve air quality, reduce energy use, and improve quality of life.
The program planted species that are native to the Richmond area and include cockspur hawthorn, yellowwood, northern catalpa, river birch, blue beech, eastern black oak, pin oak, hop hornbeam, tulip poplar, cucumber magnolia, Kentucky coffeetree, and wafer ash.
The Tree Tenders Volunteer program was made possible by Indiana American Water’s Environmental Grant Program and existing City funds designated to go toward street trees. The City intends to continue the volunteer program in the spring with additional plantings, should funds allow.
If you are interested in learning more about the Tree Tenders Volunteer program, please contact Richmond’s Heat Relief Coordinator, Lucy Mellen, at 765-983-7333 or lmellen@richmondindiana.gov.
Sign up for email updates.