Evansville residents who want to make a lasting impact on their community have several opportunities this spring to get involved.

The Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation has partnered with several local organizations to launch the Evansville Forest Alliance, a new initiative aimed at expanding the city’s tree canopy through strategic planting projects.

Evansville Forest Alliance Launches Tree Planting Initiative

The Evansville Forest Alliance was formed through a partnership between Wesselman Woods, the City of Evansville Arborist, the City of Evansville Climate Action Director, Community One, and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

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The initiative is supported by a $249,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Community and Urban Forestry program. Funding for the grant was provided by the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the Inflation Reduction Act.

Organizers say the effort will focus heavily on planting trees in underserved and low-income neighborhoods across Evansville.

Urban tree planting provides a wide range of benefits, including improved air quality, reduced urban heat, stormwater management, and increased neighborhood beauty.

Read More: Trade In That Smelly Invasive Tree for a Native Species

Volunteers Needed For Six Evansville Tree Planting Events

Community members are invited to volunteer at six planting events scheduled throughout March.

Jacobsville Park
March 14 from 1 PM to 4 PM
Baker Avenue and W Maryland Street

Garvin Park
March 14 from 1 PM to 4 PM
45 Don Mattingly Way

Akin Park
March 21 from 9 AM to Noon
Parkside Drive and Taylor Avenue

Bayard Park
March 21 from 9 AM to Noon
840 East Chandler Avenue

Wabash Avenue of Flags
March 28 from 9 AM to Noon
Meeting at the West Side Library Lawn

Little Westside Nut Club Park
March 28 from 9 AM to Noon
19 North 11th Avenue

All Evansville residents are encouraged to participate. Those interested in volunteering for these events or future planting efforts can contact Wesselman Woods Director of Natural Resources and Research Derek Walsh, or visit Evansville Forest Alliance online.

Organizers say planting trees today will help shape a greener and healthier Evansville for generations to come.

40 Evansville, Indiana Parks and Where to Find Them

When you're ready to get the kids outside to play, Evansville offers a plethora of parks. Whether you're looking for playgrounds for the littles or basketball courts for the bigger kids, here's where you can find 40 of Evansville's parks.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

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