Young Trees Tended by Community Groups
(Philadelphia, PA) – Growing up in the city can be tough. Not only for people, but for trees as well. Did you know that a new street tree has an average life span of only 7-10 years? However, community groups in University City have decided to give the area’s young trees a fighting chance.
In April, University City District, UC Green, and local community associations contracted Moon Landscaping to tend to many young trees – 340 of them - in the district, which stretches from the Schuylkill River to 50th St. and from Spring Garden St. to Woodland Ave. This work complements the care done by volunteer TreeTenders, trained by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and by the Fairmount Park Commission tree pruning contract with the Davy Tree Company. It took four weeks to prune the trees, aerate, weed, and re-mulch the tree pits. This maintenance greatly increases the chances for these young ones to make it.
The groups involved believe this tree maintenance is vital for University City, known for its broad, leafy streets and large Victorian homes. In the past several years, many new trees have been planted in order to reestablish the tree canopy in the area. Without caring for the trees, many might not make it. University City District’s executive director, Eric Goldstein, who is also a Registered Landscape Architect, believes "Trees are a tremendous addition to the quality-of-life in University City and a big reason why the area is so popular; UCD is truly happy to be able to partner with groups like UC Green to continue improving the area." UC Green’s Amanda Benner agrees, "The fact that University City has an urban forest of many mature and healthy street trees is a testament to their long-term value to our community. By taking care of our young trees today, we can help ensure that legacy."
UC Green cooperates with neighborhood residents, community and religious organizations, local students, and city agencies to strengthen the social capital in University City through volunteer greening efforts.
University City District builds effective partnerships to maintain a clean and safe environment and to promote, plan and advocate for University City’s diverse, urban community. University City is the region’s leading community for technology, research, higher education and health care integrated with historic and desirable residential neighborhoods, vibrant commercial and cultural attractions, and strong transportation connections.
Release Date: Wednesday, June 9th 2004
