HOWELL – Free tree seedlings will be available to Howell residents during April as part of the New Jersey Tree Recovery Campaign. This program helps communities replace trees that were damaged or destroyed by superstorm Sandy in 2012.
From 8 a.m to 3:30 p.m. April 21, residents will be able to obtain tree seedlings at the Howell public works garage, 278 Old Tavern Road.
Seedlings, which will be available on a first come, first served basis, come with instructions regarding their storage, care and planting. The guides help residents choose the right place on a property to plant a tree while keeping in mind the tree’s full-grown size. Residents should plant the seedlings within two days after pick-up in order to prevent the roots from drying out, according to a press release.
The goal of the Tree Recovery Campaign is to distribute more than 500,000 tree seedlings to New Jersey residents over five years. The campaign is a joint effort among Howell, the New Jersey Forest Service, New Jersey soil conservation districts, Sustainable Jersey, the Arbor Day Foundation, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Canon and FedEx.
When properly planted and maintained, trees can be assets to a community. They improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood or business district, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat, among other benefits, according to the press release.
For more information, contact the Department of Public Works at 732-938-4500, ext. 2450, or send an email to [email protected]