At the start of last fall’s tree-planting event in Eastside, Covington Urban Forestry Board member Jessica Spencer gave volunteers a brief tutorial on roots and the best way to plant a tree.

Volunteers needed for biannual beautification event

COVINGTON, Ky. – Volunteers with shovels who aren’t afraid to get muddy (and no doubt sore) are needed to plant trees in Peaselburg on Saturday morning.

The Covington Urban Forestry Board and the City’s Forestry Division are holding their biannual community tree planning, with the goal to put 52 trees or more in the ground along Russell Street and W. 20^th Street.

Volunteers should meet just before 9 a.m. in the parking lot at Glenn O. Swing Elementary School, 501 W. 19^th St. They will fan out and work until noon or all the trees are planted.

If you go

• Wear boots or sturdy shoes and clothes that can get dirty.
• Bring gloves and a shovel if you have them (though some are available).
• Refreshments will be provided by Keep Covington Beautiful.
• The Urban Forestry Board’s Facebook event.

Why?

Covington Urban Forester Patrick Moore said the City typically holds a tree planting every spring and fall on its mission to expand Covington’s tree canopy. About five dozen trees were planted both this past spring in Ritte’s East part of Latonia and last fall in Eastside.

“Tree plantings are both fun and productive,” Moore said. “It’s rewarding to see how the Covington community gets engaged and takes pride in beautifying its surroundings.”

On top of that, Moore said, the plantings have long-term health and environmental benefits.

“Not only are tree-line streets aesthetically nicer but it’s also scientifically proven that people who live in areas with a lot of trees enjoy better health,” he said. “Plus, trees filter out pollutants in both the air and groundwater, provide cooling shade, and block street noise.”

Moore said the tree species will include black gum (tupelos), Kentucky yellowwood, redbud, and hawthorn and Osage orange cultivars. Trees will be selected to fit the spot where they’re to be planted.

For an entire list of how a vibrant tree canopy improves a neighborhood, check out the City’s Urban Forestry page and scroll down to “Benefits of trees.”

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