Opportunity to replant trees lost to Katrina

Tue, 12/06/2005 - 5:05pm
By: The Citizen

The National Arbor Day Foundation has announced a special new campaign to assist in tree recovery efforts for the areas that were devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Through the Katrina Tree Recovery Campaign, the Arbor Day Foundation, in cooperation with the National Audubon Society, is offering people across America the opportunity to support replanting trees in coastal Mississippi and Louisiana, and begin the reforestation of neighborhoods and cities across the region. For every $10 donated to the Katrina Tree Recovery Campaign, the Foundation will contribute 10 trees to be planted by Katrina victims.

“This is an important way to help those who have suffered the loss of vital trees,” said Arbor Day Foundation President John Rosenow. “Through their contribution, supporters throughout America will make it possible for people in Mississippi and Louisiana to plant native-species trees to counter some of the destruction caused by Katrina. Trees add beauty and conservation benefits to back yards and natural areas. This is an important way to help restore the land and rebuild communities.”

The tree species to be planted include Baldcypress, Red Maple, Eastern Redcedar, and Red Oak. Rosenow adds that not only will supporters have the satisfaction of donating these trees to people in need, but the Arbor Day Foundation will also provide to each donor of $10 or more a free membership, including a subscription to the Foundation’s bimonthly publication, Arbor Day, and The Tree Book with information about tree planting and care.

Rosenow says the Arbor Day Foundation is pleased to work with Audubon Mississippi in distributing these trees to Gulf Coast residents. “Audubon’s commitment to getting the trees to the people and areas of need is vital,” he said, “and their leadership in organizing volunteer tree planters is helping make this possible.”

To help hurricane victims replant these devastated areas, send your contribution to the Katrina Tree Recovery Campaign, National Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410, or contribute online at arborday.org/katrina.

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