Community Tree Plantings Are Changing New Jersey for the Better

New Jersey is improving its cities and environment through tree-planting programs led by the New Jersey Tree Foundation and the New Jersey Forest Service.

These programs focus on adding trees, removing concrete, and involving local communities to create lasting change.

In South Jersey, the Urban Airshed Reforestation Program (UARP) planted 198 trees with the help of 385 volunteers on a series of weekends in September and October 2024.

The volunteers worked tirelessly to dig, plant, and water in areas often devoid of greenery.

Alongside the tree planting, 682 square feet of concrete were removed to create new tree pits.

Since its start in 2002, UARP has planted 8,390 trees, removed 91,885 square feet of concrete, and engaged 17,032 volunteers in improving urban areas.

In North Jersey, the Renaissance Trees Program (RTP) planted 71 trees during the same season.

A total of 241 volunteers helped remove 237 square feet of concrete.

Since 2006, RTP has planted 4,556 trees, cleared 22,815 square feet of concrete, and involved 9,752 volunteers.

The focus is on areas where trees are most needed, improving stormwater management, air quality, and neighborhood appearance.

Residents who receive free trees sign an agreement to care for them for at least two years.

Applications for free trees open twice a year, in winter and summer, with events planned in coordination with local communities.

The New Jersey Forest Service complements these efforts with reforestation and conservation projects.

The State Forest Nursery, which began in 1907, now operates on 875 acres in Jackson.

It produces over 300,000 seedlings each year, including 30 to 40 species of native shrubs, hardwoods, and conifers.

Seedlings are distributed to landowners and organizations for reforestation projects.

The nursery also grows over 60,000 tube seedlings each year for Arbor Day, Earth Day, and school programs.

While the “Trees for Third Graders” program is on pause, the nursery continues to focus on preserving local tree species.

They collect seeds locally and partner with the USDA Forest Service to protect native species like ash and hemlock from pests and diseases.

They also collaborate with the American Chestnut Foundation to restore the American chestnut tree, once common in New Jersey.

Not to mention, the programs bring people together.

In South Jersey, over 17,000 volunteers have contributed to UARP.

And in North Jersey, nearly 10,000 volunteers have helped with RTP.

If you’re interested in getting involved, you can apply for a free tree through the New Jersey Tree Foundation or support the Forest Service’s conservation projects.