According to a new post on the Richmond Tree Stewards website, Richmond’s Urban Forestry Department has been busy this winter, planting almost 2,000 new trees.

This investment will repay us many times over by cleaning our air and water, shading our homes, providing habitat, etc. The list of benefits that a healthy urban canopy provides is very long and even includes such things as less childhood asthma and decreased health care costs. However, our urban foresters cannot do it alone. These young trees will need many other people willing assist in getting them off to a healthy start. And EVERY TREE COUNTS! The urban canopy includes all trees, including the ones in your yard. Learning how to properly plant, maintain, and care for your own trees is the most effective action any citizen can take.

The tree stewards have been hard at work planning events for Arbor Day in April. Every weekend there’ll be tree walks in places like Byrd Park. Forest Hill Park, Bryan Park and Capitol Square. A “Tree Academy” is also available for those who want to learn more about our urban canopy. Check out their website for more information