Tree Revitalize, a project spearheaded by Newport’s East Row Garden Club, will hold their third street tree planting event on Saturday, Oct. 15th from 8:30-1.
This year, 100 volunteers will plant 145 street trees along east Newport streets. This effort is part of an ongoing citizen-driven project to maintain and expand the urban tree canopy throughout Newport. Trees are more than city aesthetics — they are now considered critical city infrastructure, providing a healthier environment, storm water management, a better community and higher property values.
Tree Revitalize was able to offer east Newport residents and business owners 10-12 ft. tall trees for only $50 each. The East Row Garden Club and the East Row Historic Foundation financed the remaining costs, with significant pre-planting support, i.e. dead tree removal, sidewalk cutouts and pre-digging by Newport city staff.
Rachel Comte, a Newport resident, arborist and city planner, initiated this effort with a volunteer-driven street tree inventory in 2013. Tree planting projects ensued – 90 street trees planted in east Newport in 2014, 125 street trees planted in west Newport in 2015, and now the third planting event of 145 trees.
These tree projects have been in response to a 2013 aerial tree canopy assessment run by the Northern KY Urban & Community Forestry Council. Tree Revitalize is also involved with community education. East Row neighborhood newsletters have included articles on the benefits of trees, proper mulching techniques, and tree care. Recently the group hosted a presentation of the film “Trees in Trouble” highlighting the devastating effects of the emerald ash borer in Cincinnati and is currently working on a landmark tree acknowledgement program.
Project founder Rachel Comte says, “Visitors to the East Row always remark about the wonderful tree canopy we have, and we know it is critical to a healthy community and an attracter to new residents as well. This project is unique as it is a partnership of multiple organizations working with the critical support of the City. I love our city and the enthusiasm of residents as they get involved in this important work. It doesn’t happen automatically – citizens must get involved, and we in Newport have that quality in spades.”
For more information, contact: Chris Comte, East Row Garden Club – Tree Revitalize Team, 859-802-8514