By Diana Parker
FOJ Sierra Club and Chapter members gathered in the early chill November 17 to plant 150 Red Maple and 150 White Dogwoods donated by Frito-lay and administered by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Others from Climate Action Network, Richmond Parks and Recreation Foundation, assisted with this ‘Cool Cities’ initiative.
John Pope, Director, Richmond Parks and Recreation Department welcomed all helpers. The ground had been tilled with compost added by the Richmond Public Works and the Richmond Parks and Recreation Departments. Our instructions from Mike Mather, City Arborist, were to dig a deep enough hole for the sapling roots, ensure the soil was well broken up no clots and the roots well packed and tight not too deep. The digging was accomplished with quick work from many hands and the plants were well watered in with help from Charles Price, Chapter Chair and Public Works personnel. Volunteers were requested to adopt trees for continued care to ensure their success in survival.
It is anticipated that as the saplings grow, and survivors are identified, some would be relocated to other locations.
