By Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
The Mayor’s Greening Initiative is a partnership with the Mayor’s office, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and the City’s Forestry Department as a way to engage the entire community in reaching our city’s 40 percent tree canopy goal.
Together, since 2016, we have
- Planted over 800 trees in the city of Grand Rapids
- Brought together 1,000 volunteers
- Given away 400 saplings to elementary school children to ignite their passion for nature
However, our work is not done. In 2017 we had to remove 1,500 dead, dying, or diseased trees that were a dangerous hazard in our community. You can find more information about this project here. While removing these trees was a necessity for the safety of the community, it does leave a gap in our City’s tree canopy. Through the Mayor’s Greening Initiative, the City’s tree planting efforts, and other Friends of Grand Rapids Parks tree plantings, we are steadily making strides towards the City’s tree canopy goal of 40%. We hope we can count on your partnership and support for the Mayor’s Greening Initiative as well as for future opportunities to help us reach our canopy goal.
Why plant trees? Click here to find out benefits of urban trees. From cleaner air and cooler pavement to economic growth, trees can bring many different benefits to a community.
arbor week events
In collaboration with Stocking Elementary school, students learn about Arbor Day, write a proclamation that is presented to Mayor Bliss, enjoy tree trivia, and 400 saplings are given away to the students.
- Friday, April 27 from 6-7:00 pm we will be giving away 100 five gallon trees at Sullivan Field. Trees are available on a first come, first serve basis, so get there early!
- Saturday, April 28 from 9 am-12 pm this year’s one-day community tree planting will take place in the neighborhoods near Sullivan Field and Stocking Elementary on the city’s West Side.
Volunteer
Join the Mayor’s Greening Initiative and volunteer at the tree planting on Saturday 28th! Never planted a tree before? No problem! Our team will give you step by step instructions on how to plant a tree as well as provide all the tools and equipment you will need. Groups will work collaboratively with other volunteers and there will always be a tree expert in the area who will be able to answer any questions. You can register here to volunteer.
Sponsorships
Sponsorship opportunities are available. If you would like to know more about being a sponsor please contact info@friendsofgrparks.org for details.
