Celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees in a park!

The importance of trees cannot be overstated: According to the Grand Rapids Urban Forest Project, trees improve air quality by filtering out pollutants; enhance water quality by reducing runoff of pollutant-filled storm water; reduce energy costs by shading buildings from the hot summer sun; add to our quality of life with their beauty and cool shade; and increase property values.

With all that in mind, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks (FGRP) believe that vibrant parks and public spaces are key to supporting a community's economic competitiveness, environmental health, and cultural well-being, because a healthy park system requires a long-term commitment.

And now you have an opportunity to help FGRP make a difference: Meet up with them on April 26 and 27 and help plant trees in Riverside Park. The organization's most ambitious tree planting to date will help protect the Grand River watershed and increase our City's urban tree canopy.

What's in it for you? For starters, two exciting days of tree planting to improve water quality and restore lost Ash trees in Riverside Park. This is just one of many projects that offers the opportunity to get your hands dirty restoring Grand Rapids' urban tree canopy. The goal here is to plant a grand total of 150 trees with help from the community -- and that includes you. No previous tree planting experience is necessary.

Friends of Grand Rapids Parks will provide the tools, trees, and training -- just bring drinking water, clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and gloves. Meet at the Riverbend shelter around 12:00 p.m. to get set up, and the planting will kick off at 1 p.m.

Founded in 2008, the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is an independent, citizen-led, nonprofit enterprise that works closely with, but separate from, the City. They make park improvement projects happen by bringing together neighbors, park users, the City, funders, volunteers, and contractors.

Get involved:

- Help plant a tree on April 26 and/or April 27! Register for the event online, by phone (616) 581-7164, or by emailing Heather Kaweck.
- Visit Friends of GR Parks' website and become a friend.
- Donate.
- Like the Facebook page.
- Learn more about the important role that trees play in our City on the Urban Forest Project's website.

Source: Heather Kaweck, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
Writer: Victoria Mullen, Do Good Editor

Images courtesy of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks