Planting Trees

Are you interested in planting trees this Rotary year, but don’t know where to begin? Here are some tips adapted from ‘tree planting expert’ Bob Aagre of the Nimmonsburg Rotary Club. That club has planted over 250 trees already!Are you interested in planting trees this Rotary year, but don’t know where to begin? Here are some tips adapted from ‘tree planting expert’ Bob Aagre of the Nimmonsburg Rotary Club. That club has planted over 250 trees already!

  • Does your village or municipality have a Tree Board or Tree Committee? Find out by contacting your village, town, or city. Many villages and tree committees are thrilled to learn of your club’s interest in planting trees, and will help you to get started.

  • Whether you are planting trees on private or public property, ask if you can place a small Service Project of _ Rotary Club sign next to your planted tree – even if it is just temporary this is great publicity.

  • Be sure to get permission from the property owner, and consider having them sign a legal liability waiver, giving you permission to go onto their property and plant the tree.

  • Leave behind a simple tree care flyer – this is also a great opportunity to promote your club’s involvement.

  • If your village has a new home or business welcome kit – often the Chamber of Commerce does this – ask to get your club’s tree planting information into it – even if you aren’t planting trees this is an excellent way to get Rotary in front of new community members!

  • Consider planting historic ‘witness’ trees for local schools or parks. Bob was able to buy a clone from a tree authenticated by Matthew Brady photographs as having been alive on the Gettysburg Battlefield.

  • Bob ordered trees through Lowes, and garden stores are definitely an option for you. In January, the New York State DEC holds a seedling sale. More information is available here: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/9395.html Regardless of where you buy your trees, make sure you get varieties that grow and flourish in your particular area.

Since RI President Ian has prioritized planting trees in 2017-18, he’d love to see your efforts, so keep track of the work you do and post photos on your club’s website or (even better) Facebook page #pledgetoplant.