100 Trees to Be Planted at Arlington Public Schools
Published on October 09, 2024
The Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation’s Urban Forestry Office is partnering with Arlington Public Schools (APS) to plant 100 trees on school properties, thanks to the Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant Program. This work is critical as the County advances toward its 40% tree canopy coverage goal and maintains a healthy ecosystem for everyone to enjoy.
"We are immensely proud of the hard work and dedication our staff and the Arlington community have invested in expanding and preserving our natural landscape," said Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey. "We are excited to extend this mission to Arlington’s public schools through our partnership with the Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant Program. It fosters a great future where our even more trees will grow and thrive alongside our students, enriching their learning environment and well-being."
Arlington's goal with this project is to enhance the health, well-being, and educational outcomes of students at Arlington County's public schools by increasing their access to the benefits of trees and tree canopies. Priority will be given to schools located in Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) neighborhoods or those with lower tree equity scores, as identified by the American Forests Tree Equity Program.
"I want to thank the County for this generous donation,” shared Arlington Public Schools Board Chair Mary Kadera. "As these trees are planted, we are enhancing the outdoor learning opportunities for our staff and students, investing in the future of our community, and mitigating the effects of climate change for the next generation."
The grant program is designed to encourage lasting tree canopy growth to enhance water quality throughout Virginia. It provides funding for tree-planting initiatives aimed at raising public awareness of the positive effects trees have on water quality across the state.
Planting will take place this fall through the end of 2024. Arlington County continues to work closely with the APS and community partners to expand our green spaces, enhance tree canopy, and bring more nature to the public.