FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2019
Contact:
John Scott or Melissa Evans
Urban Foresters
Parks and Recreation Department
479.444.3471
urbanforestry@fayetteville-ar.gov
Loblolly Pine Sapling Giveaway in West Fayetteville
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark.— Urban foresters and staff from the City of Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department are collaborating with Girl Scout Troop 5327 at Holcomb Elementary School (2900 N. Salem Rd.) to give away 500 loblolly pine seedlings. The event will take place rain or shine (unless there is lightning) on Saturday, March 9, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Holcomb Gazebo near the Gary Hampton Softball Complex. Limit two per person. Staff will show proper planting techniques and provide information about trees and urban forests.
Girl Scout Troop 5327 wanted to work with neighbors around the school and chose to host a tree giveaway because the newer neighborhoods surrounding Holcomb have a less dense tree canopy then older parts of Fayetteville. Additional trees will benefit the area; however, recipients are not limited to the neighborhood.
Trees add environmental, economic, and behavioral benefits to a community, by providing shade for trails, sidewalks, yards, and homes; creating wildlife habitat, and beautifying areas. Trees remove huge quantities of pollutants from the air, aid in erosion control, and decrease stormwater runoff. Using trees as wind blocks or as shade producers can decrease utility bills. It has been proven that person will stay calmer and remain outdoors longer if given a green, shady area to relax and recreate. Trees planted where they can be observed from residential dwellings, hospital rooms, or school classrooms can reduce crime rates, accelerate patient recovery, and increase student productivity. Visit this webpage to learn more about the City’s Urban Forestry program.
The Urban Forestry Advisory Board and Urban Forestry staff stress “Right Tree, Right Place.” Trees can take many years to reach their mature height and spread. It is important for homeowners to take all surroundings into consideration when choosing the location for their new tree. To avoid heavy pruning or removal, consider the mature height of the tree and proximity near overhead power lines. Residents should always contact Arkansas One Call at 811 or 800-482-8998 before digging.
###