Volunteers are needed in the next several months to help Wake Forest’s Urban Forestry division plant 200 or so street trees throughout the town. They will be expected to dig holes, plant trees, spread mulch and water the trees, efforts that will extend into early 2019.
The tree-planting project offers a great opportunity for local students to earn community service hours. However, volunteers under the age of 18 must have the permission of a parent or legal guardian.
Anyone interesting in volunteering is encouraged to register at www.wakeforestnc.gov/tree-planting-volunteers.aspx<http://www.wakeforestnc.gov/tree-planting-volunteers.aspx>.
The town also seeks volunteers with a passion for trees, a desire to learn and an interest in helping to become certified tree stewards.
The Tree Steward Program provides a unique opportunity for citizens to learn about trees and the care of trees through a comprehensive introductory class followed by optional trainings on special topics throughout the year. Trained and certified tree care professionals teach how trees grow, how to identify trees, proper planting techniques, pruning basics, and how to diagnose common tree problems.
After completing the training, volunteers will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to prune trees, plant new trees in parks and public areas, conduct tree inventories and educate citizens on proper tree care. No previous experience is needed to become a tree steward and the cost is free.
Tree Stewards must pledge to contribute at least four hours of service within one year of their training. Many opportunities for service will be offered including providing information at community events, planting trees, and performing basic maintenance, such as pruning, mulching and watering.
Participants under the age of 18 must have the permission of a parent or legal guardian to volunteer.
For more information, or to apply for the Tree Steward Program, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/tree-steward-program.aspx<https://www.wakeforestnc.gov/tree-steward-program.aspx> or contact Urban Forestry Coordinator Luke Devores at 919-435-9565 or ldevores@wakeforestnc.gov<mailto:ldevores@wakeforestnc.gov>.
