Free Tree Planting Challenge

Cool your community | Cleanse the air | Protect the planet | Earn prizes

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), the Department of Transportation (DDOT) Urban Forestry Division (UFD), Friends of Oxon Run Park, Casey Trees and the MITRE Corporation are delighted to announce the inaugural Ward 8 Free Tree Planting Challenge. We need YOUR help planting free trees in Ward 8. Why? Trees make for healthier communities. Neighborhoods that are well-shaded with trees stay cooler on hot days. Trees also filter out harmful pollutants and improve air quality. Even more, planting a tree can help your community connect with nature, decrease stress levels, and promote outdoor activities. Entering the challenge is easy! There are two ways (tracks) to participate. We will raffle 20 $100 gift cards (approximately 10 per track). Please submit an entry form and let us know how you plan to participate.

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Tree Planting

Each person or team needs to complete a tree challenge entry form by Wed March 31, 2021. Planting will take place in May 2021. 

After you submit an entry form, you will be contacted within one week by us to discuss your project. It is important to plant the right tree in the right location. It is also important to create a maintenance plan (e.g., water and fertilization).  

We are partnering with DOEE, Casey Trees and DDOT Urban Forestry Division (UFD) who will plant the trees for free. There is no copayment and no limit on the number of trees per property. Click here to see possible tree options.  

Have a question? Reach out to our coaches:

Rob Shaut | Casey Trees

Brenda Lee Richardson | Friends of Oxon Run

 
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Connecting with Nature

Each person needs to complete an entry form by Friday April 16, 2021.

You can participate in four ways (multiple submissions are welcomed):

  1. Write a short story or create a short video. Tell us how you connect to nature or why trees, a local greenspace or nature is important to you. Send your entry via email.

  2. Request, assemble and paint a free birdhouse (while kits last). Contact Brenda or go to Bellevue Library (115 Atlantic St. SW, Washington DC 20032; ask for Kellye)

  3. Complete a Tree Bingo Scavenger Hunt

  4. Schedule a neighborhood tree walk with Casey Trees arborist. Send email.

 

Participation Awards:

Friends of Oxon Run will host an award ceremony (by invitation only) on Tuesday May 11th at the Oxon Run Park Amphitheater to present 20 raffle winners a $100.00 gift card. The gift card will be given directly to the participant.

Virtual coaching

Virtual coaching is designed to help you succeed with the challenge.  Coaching will be provided to help you understand: (a) the benefits of trees, (b) how to take action to prevent urban heat islands and (c) how to connect with nature.  All applicants are strongly encouraged to watch virtual coaching sessions.

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“The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.”

— Chinese proverb