Friends of the Urban Forest to hold street tree planting event in Glen Park neighborhood
San Francisco, CA- October 23, 2009 – Greening organization Friends of the Urban Forest is currently preparing for their upcoming street tree planting event in Glen Park.
The planting will take place on Saturday, December 12. Residents can purchase a tree to plant in the sidewalk in front of their home for $195. Those who want to participate in the planting but do not want to spend money can volunteer to assist with the planting of the many trees that will be put in the ground that day. Volunteering is great opportunity to learn about tree care from a certified arborist, while contributing to the beautification of the neighborhood.
The planting event begins at 8 a.m. for those who purchase trees and 9 a.m. for volunteers. A potluck will be held after the planting, so participants can unwind after their day of hard work and better get to know each other.
For those who want to purchase a street tree, forms can be obtained at http://www.fuf.net/treePlanting/plantingForms.html. Completed forms must be submitted by November 9.
There are numerous advantages to having trees in your neighborhood:
Quality of Life: Trees reduce stress, absorb traffic noise and increase privacy.
Energy Conservation: Strategic planning of trees provides shade, reducing the long term need for power plants, according to the Center for Urban Forest Research.
Increased property values: A row of mature street trees increases property values up to 20 percent.
Clean air: The average tree in a residential neighborhood can provide enough oxygen for a family of four, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Decreased flooding: Trees reduce storm water runoff by absorbing rainwater. One tree can absorb up 25,000 gallons of water annually.
Improved Education: Studies have shown children have longer attention spans when they have a view that includes trees.
Good for business: “Healthy and well maintained trees send positive messages about the appeal of a business district, the quality of products and what customer service a shopper can expect,” according to a study from the University of Washington.
Friends of the Urban Forest was created in 1981 and has organized the planting of about 1,000 street trees throughout San Francisco each year. The organization also gives tours of well landscaped neighborhoods, runs tree care workshops, and employs San Francisco youths, who learn about and care for urban trees.
Contact:
Greg Harrell, Community Outreach Coordinator
Friends of the Urban Forest
Phone: (415) 561-6890 ext. 101
Email: greg@fuf.net