The Community Forestry Small Grant supported the development, growth, and outreach of the South Windsor Invasive Plant Working Group. Over the year, the group had a presence at 4 farmers markets in the Town of South Windsor.
“The ability to have a ‘set up’ at the Farmers Market, with signage, informational boards, hand outs, shade, and an area to congregate and talk about invasives has been very helpful in recruiting new members and raising awareness about invasive species in our communities. There are plans to set up the information booth at other events in Town in the future.” – Vincent Stetson, Superintendent of Street Services, Town of South Windsor
The CUFC Small Grant supported the replacement of 20 ash trees along Putnam Boulevard in Glastonbury, all of which had died or declined as a result of the emerald ash borer.
The project was carried out with the help of 25 volunteers of all ages in partnership with the Glastonbury Partners in Planting (GPIP). Staff from the Parks and Recreation Department also played a key role in the project, including tree pick up, ground preparation, planting assistance, mulching, and ongoing maintenance.
Prior to the planting the group convened to discuss safety and logistics, and also to educate youth from the Teen Center about non-native invasive species issues, proper planting, and the value of trees.
On the day of the planting, the very visible location allowed for additional educational opportunities, as volunteers engaged curious members of the community about the project.
“The Connecticut Urban Forest Council’s grant program has given us the opportunity as a town to come together, work together, and be able to see the fruits of our labor. One cannot help but smile as they drive down Putnam Boulevard, see the trees thriving and knowing they will continue to thrive for future generations to enjoy.” – Lisa Zerio, Director of Parks and Recreation and Gregory A. Foran, Parks Superintendent and Tree Warden
The CUFC Small Grant supported an ongoing project in the Town of Windham, the 325 Trees/Shrubs Project, to plant trees and shrubs in public spaces in the city. The selected trees and shrubs are native specimens chosen to support New England animal, insect, and bird life. The project is now in its fourth year.
The grant was used to buy five 3-3.5″ caliper trees specifically for Jillson Square, the large common area in downtown Willimantic, which is the site of the new Shaboo Stage and will soon hold the Community and Senior Center. Two very old large trees were taken down, and the community was relieved to hear that new trees were coming.
Staff at the Public Works Department planted two red oaks, two black gum, and one sweetgum. There are plans to continue planting similar trees on Jillson Square to create shade and beauty all around the 6-acre parcel.
In partnership with Keney Park Sustainability Project and Hartford Maple Syrup Club, KNOX will train Hartford students to identify various types of trees and tap maple trees. KNOX will hold a Maple Sap Tap event for students at Burns Latino Studies Academy, Environmental Sciences Magnet School, and Noah Webster Micro Society Magnet School. Students will work with KNOX and Hartford Maple Syrup Club to identify, tap, and collect sap from maple trees. Following each event, KNOX and Keney Park Sustainability Project will take students on a nature walk to identify different species of trees.
Week One: Introduction the Maple Tree Tapping & Maple Trees. Students will review how to identify maple tree leafs in preparation for the nature walk.
Week Two/Three: Maple Tree Tapping. Students will go on a nature walk to practice identifying trees.
Week Four: Maple Syrup Tastings.