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Growing Strong: Galesburg’s Tree Planting Plan
Published 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Description
Tune in to hear Tom Simkins, Special Projects Coordinator for the City of Galesburg, discuss the city’s ongoing effort to plant 700 trees by year-end, building on over 600 planted since 2022. Tom covers volunteer opportunities, funding, and the impact of greening initiatives. Key Highlights: Progress: Over 600 trees planted since 2022, aiming for 700 by December 2025, following Project 350’s 420 trees from 2021-2024. Volunteer Events: Oct. 4: 8:30 a.m., Salvation Army parking lot (Grove & Prairie), planting 23 trees in the historic district. Oct.11: 8:30 a.m., Hawthorne Center (Dale May Fire Training Center), planting trees on Veterans and Windish drives. Funding: Supported by a $15,000 Community Canopy Grant from Trees Forever. Diversity: Focus on species like elms, maples, and lilacs to combat diseases such as Emerald Ash Borer. Community Engagement: Free terrace and memorial trees available—call 309-299-6959 or email tesimkins@gmail.com. Updates include 29 trees planned for Cooke Park in late October/November and the completed skate park.