Looking for a fun way to make a difference in the community? Plant a tree!
Join the largest tree planting in the University of Oregon’s history. Employees, students and community members can meet at 10 a.m. Jan. 31 at the Willamette River Natural Area near the south side of the Frohnmayer Bridge.
The event is just one ecological restoration step in a plan to plant 455 native trees over two years to establish a mixed forest and oak savanna for the community to enjoy along the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path.
No gardening experience is necessary. Wear closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and bring water. The organizers will provide all necessary tools, snacks, tree planting training and plenty of coffee.
The initiative has been awarded $103,626 through the Oregon Department of Forestry Urban and Community Forestry grants program in collaboration with the city of Eugene, Willamette Resources and Educational Network, and Friends of Trees. Besides providing shade and tree cover for visitors, the tree planting will create vital habitat and food resources for wildlife (as evidenced by a recent otter sighting) and provide learning and leadership opportunities for students.
Busy Jan. 31? Another tree planting is scheduled for Feb. 21.
Learn more about the project and action plan on the Willamette River Natural Area website.