Grab Your Friends and Plant a Tree for Releaf Boise

One of our family's favorite community service activities is Releaf Boise, sponsored by Boise Parks & Recreation Community Forest unit. The purpose of the event to to plant trees along streets and right-of-ways in Boise City, and is a great activity for people of all ages.

Over the years, our family has been part of a team that has planted over 60 trees in our neighborhood. We've met lots of great people and made many new friends, all while beautifying the neighborhoods where we live.

Trees provide more than just shade. They cool the air around them; their canopy slows down the evaporation of water from our lawns. They provide a windbreak and reduce runoff during storms. Trees also filter dust particles from the air and absorb carbon dioxide. From an economic standpoint, trees reduce energy costs and improve the value of our homes. With all these great things going for it, Releaf Boise is an activity that significantly improves our community.

How can you help?

The first step is pulling together a planting team. In the past, our family has teamed up with other neighbors, 4H groups and Girl Scouts to plant trees in our area. Forming teams is quite simple; you just grab a group of friends or coworkers, neighbors or interested kids and work together as a planting team. If you choose to volunteer by yourself, ask the City Foresters to place you in an existing group.

Several representatives from your planting team must then attend a tree planting workshop at the Community Forestry Workshop. At this free workshop, volunteers learn the latest in tree planting techniques and tips. This year's workshop is on Thursday, April 26 between 6:00-7:00 at the Community Forest shop.