FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2020
Contact: John Scott
Urban ForesterParks and Recreation Department
479.444.3470
jscott@fayetteville-ar.gov
City and Girl Scouts Host Tree Seedling Giveaway and Material Collection for Insect Hotels
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The City of Fayetteville’s Urban Forestry staff, in collaboration with Girl Scout Troop 5327, is hosting Cookies, Trees and Bees on Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Holcomb Gazebo near Gary Hampton softball fields (2900 N. Salem Road).
This is the second year Troop 5327 has held the event to help increase awareness about native tree species and improving Fayetteville’s urban tree canopy. The troop will give away 200 native tree seedlings (limit two per person). The species are redbud, bald cypress, deciduous holly, and northern red oak. An Urban Forester will be on hand to answer any planting questions and inquiries about the tree species.
The Scouts are also collecting materials to construct “insect hotels” for placement in Fayetteville parks. Untreated scrap lumber, bamboo pieces, unvarnished slats, and other construction materials are needed. Insect hotels offer sanctuary to insects, especially pollinators in the urban forests of cities. With the loss of habitat, these hotels offer temporary nesting opportunities for bees, beetles, and ladybugs. The Troop will build a hotel on site while other members are giving away seedlings and selling cookies.
The City of Fayetteville applauds the environmental stewardship of Girl Scout Troop 5327.
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.
Please visit the City’s Urban Forestry program webpage to learn more.
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