Tree Planting
Plant. Love. Grow.
This collective effort to increase tree canopy is called the Urban Forest Project, and its success relies on neighbors like you.
Friends collaborates on tree planting projects throughout the city because every tree matters as we strive for equal access to the benefits of nature. In partnership with the City of Grand Rapids, we’re working to cover 40% of the city with healthy tree canopy.
Strategies For Growth
Individual & Corporate Volunteer Projects
We connect volunteers with tree planting projects throughout GR each spring and fall. No previous experience is needed!
Neighborhood Forester Education Program
We teach the basics of tree planting, maintenance and identification through free Neighborhood Forester classes.
Free Trees for
Resident Groups
We supply groups with 10-30 free trees to be planted in GR's public spaces through our Green Your Block free tree program!
Annual Greening Initiative
We link arms with the City of Grand Rapids and volunteers to add 300+ trees to a different under-resourced neighborhood each year.
Grand Rapids' tree canopy
has room for growth
Did You Know?
The Benefits of Trees
Remove air pollutants
Intercept stormwater
Reduce and store co2
Conserve energy
About the Program
A Brief History
The 2011 Green Grand Rapids amendment to the City’s master plan established a 40% tree canopy goal in Grand Rapids.
Recognizing the need to involve residents in expanding the urban tree canopy, the City of Grand Rapids and Friends launched the Urban Forest Project with core funding from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation.
Resources
- 5-Minute Video: “How to Plant a Tree“
- Tree Toolkit: Useful links for more information
- Find your neighborhood’s Tree Equity Score
- City of GR’s yard waste and compost drop-off site
Have tree-related questions? Email us at info@friendsofgrparks.org!
Adopt-a-Park volunteer Chazz spreading mulch at Garfield Park!
