The Link

8/8/2012
TREES FOREVER

Trees Forever Announces Fall TreeKeepers Training Class

Cedar Rapids, Iowa - (August 8, 2012) - Trees Forever is expanding its new TreeKeepers volunteer education and training program and has announced another training class planned for next month. The program is designed for people who want to become more involved in and knowledgeable about urban tree planting and care, and who wish to become a stronger voice for trees in their neighborhood and community.

Participants in Trees Forever's TreeKeepers program will take part in a daylong training course, including classroom instruction and hands-on study, led by experienced Trees Forever staff members and other local experts. The one-day fall TreeKeepers class will take place on Saturday September 8, 2012 from 8:30am to 5:00pm at the Paul Engle Center in Cedar Rapids.

Local Trees Forever Field Coordinator Dustin Hinrichs states, "We are excited to continue our new TreeKeepers program, and build a dedicated group of volunteers who will plant more trees and care for our valuable street trees throughout Cedar Rapids. Our TreeKeepers will be the 'eyes and ears' for our public trees, helping to ensure we receive the full economic, environmental, and social benefits these trees provide."

Trees Forever's TreeKeepers training incorporates opportunities for hands-on experience as well as classroom sessions covering tree identification and physiology, proper planting and maintenance, the benefits of trees, and more. After completion of the TreeKeepers program, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to better maintain our existing urban trees, properly plant new trees, and maximize the benefits of trees for future generations. The program also has a volunteer service component.

"TreeKeepers will give residents the opportunity to actively participate in tree planting and care projects, and to advocate for and protect our community trees," added Hinrichs. "TreeKeepers will add to and maintain Cedar Rapids' existing urban forest, making the city greener, healthier, and more livable."

The cost of the TreeKeepers training program is $30, and includes a lunch and snacks, official TreeKeepers handbook and t-shirt, and a complimentary 1-year Trees Forever membership.

Funding and support for the TreeKeepers program in Cedar Rapids is provided by Rockwell Collins, Alliant Energy, the Linn County Witwer Trust, the City of Cedar Rapids, and Trees Forever members.

To participate in the Cedar Rapids TreeKeepers program, or for more information, please contact Trees Forever's Heath Hupke at 319-373-0650 ext. 19 or email HHupke@treesforever.org. Additional information on the TreeKeepers program or other Trees Forever programs can be found at www.treesforever.org.

-30-

Trees Forever is a nonprofit organization based in Marion, IA committed to planting trees, encouraging community involvement and stewardship, and caring for the environment. Programs focus on improving air and water quality, increasing wildlife habitat, providing substantial energy savings, and beautifying our landscape. For more information, visit www.treesforever.org or call 800-369-1269.

(Contact: Mark Signs at 319-325-7750 or Heath Hupke at 319-373-0650, ext. 19)