CATS members gathered at Chris Greene Lake to plant a total of 26 trees around the lake area. The project was the vision of and organized by Barbara White who obtained funding from the Department of Forestry.
Species included a variety of oaks, Carolina silverbells, black gums, redbuds, tulip trees and bald cypress. On March 11th fifteen CATS members planted fourteen bare rooted trees and on March 18th thirteen CATS members supported by twenty-five UVA students of the Forestry Club planted twelve containerized trees. Three or four UVA students were mentored by CATS members who explained the complexities of proper tree planting including; the steps of removing the potting material from the tree roots, correcting circling tree roots, proper siting of the trees in the holes, importance of using a slurry when filling around the roots and then stabilizing the tree in the hole. The planted trees were mulched and staked to insure that the prevailing winds wouldn’t jeopardize their rooting and were surrounded by a wire cage to protect them from deer and mowers. Saving us some of the work, park personnel augured the holes and provided the water and mulch for the trees. Once the plantings were completed, all enjoyed the provided lunch and took the opportunity to socialize. On each day, the weather cooperated and although tired at the end of the day, everyone agreed that each day was a complete success.
