Brown's Arbor Care

Keeping Your Canopy Strong

Community Engagement

BeLoved Asheville Leads Hurricane Helene Response

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BeLoved Asheville has transformed from a grassroots community organization into the beating heart of hurricane recovery efforts in North Carolina. Co-founders Amy Cantrell and Ponkho Bermejo mobilized their team with remarkable speed, turning their deep community connections into a powerful emergency response network.

A Community Force Multiplied

BeLoved’s strength lies in its 1,000-strong volunteer base and partnerships with 102 local organizations. This network enabled them to distribute millions of pounds of aid, but their impact goes deeper. Their team didn’t just deliver supplies – they conducted wellness checks, reunited separated families, and provided crucial emotional support during the crisis.

The organization’s intimate knowledge of Asheville’s vulnerable populations proved invaluable. Before Helene, BeLoved already understood which community members might need extra help and where to find them. This institutional knowledge meant aid reached those most in need, faster.

BeLoved’s Impact by the Numbers

BeLoved’s response has touched thousands of lives across Buncombe County. Their work has become especially critical as local shelters face a 30-50% surge in residents. They’re currently supporting:

  • Housing assistance for families among the 9,234 damaged homes
  • Aid for over 1,200 homeless students in local schools
  • Support for overflow at Western Carolina Rescue Ministries

BeLoved’s Comprehensive Recovery Approach

The organization has developed a multi-faceted recovery strategy:

  • Immediate Relief: BeLoved maintains consistent distribution of food, water, and medical supplies through their established community networks.
  • Housing Solutions: Drawing on their pre-hurricane housing advocacy experience, BeLoved is developing long-term shelter solutions for displaced families.
  • Mental Health Initiative: They’ve launched dedicated mental health services, leveraging their existing community trust to reach those struggling with trauma.
  • Infrastructure Support: BeLoved coordinates with local partners to restore essential community services and businesses.
  • Sustainable Recovery: Their focus extends beyond immediate aid to building lasting community resilience.

Supporting BeLoved’s Mission

BeLoved Asheville has proven that local organizations can lead effective disaster response. Their pre-existing community relationships and understanding of local needs have made their hurricane response particularly effective. They’re now expanding their usual programs to meet the increased need while maintaining their core mission of equity and justice.

To support BeLoved’s continuing efforts:

  • Donate directly through www.belovedasheville.com
  • Join their volunteer network
  • Share their story to build broader support

BeLoved Asheville’s response to Hurricane Helene demonstrates how deeply rooted community organizations can provide swift, effective disaster relief while building long-term resilience. Their work continues to evolve as community needs change, but their commitment to equitable recovery remains constant.

Durham’s Vision for a Greener Tomorrow: Urban Forestry and Tree Planting Initiatives

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Photo by Randy Heinitz

Hello Durham residents and nature enthusiasts. Are you aware of the latest updates regarding our city’s trees? There are some truly exciting developments taking place in Durham’s Urban Forestry Division, and I’d like to provide you with the information!

Caring for Our Canopy: Durham’s Urban Forestry Mission

Did you know that the folks at Durham’s Urban Forestry Division are on a mission? They’re all about making our city a greener, healthier place to live. These are the people who keep our city’s trees in top shape, taking care of everything from planting to pruning, and they’re using the latest techniques to do it. Want to dive deeper into their plan? Check out the City of Durham Urban Forest Management Plan.

Got a Spot for a Tree? Just Say the Word!

Here’s something cool: you can actually ask the city to plant a tree near your home! All you have to do is fill out the Tree Request Form. They try to match your tree preferences, but it all depends on what they have available. The planting season is from November to March, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking about requesting a tree.

Big News: Thousands of Trees on the Way!

Thanks to a huge $5.3 million grant from the USDA, Durham is about to get a whole lot leafier! We’re talking about 4,000 new trees across the city, focusing on areas that really need them. This is part of a big effort to bring more greenery to disadvantaged neighborhoods, in line with the Durham’s Urban Forestry Division’s plan.

The Amazing Benefits of Durham’s Street Trees

Our city’s street trees are more than just pretty faces – they’re hard at work! Did you know they provide benefits worth over $674,605 each year? That’s right, from fresh air to quieter streets, they’re making life in Durham better. You can find more on this in the U.S. Forest Services’ report.

Planting for the Future: 1,500 Trees a Year

Durham has set an ambitious goal: planting 1,500 street trees every year through 2025. This plan was inspired by a study done by Savatree and the University of Vermont, and it’s all about increasing our tree canopy, especially in neighborhoods that have been overlooked in the past. Learn more about this from the Tree Canopy Assessment.

Durham, North Carolina, is on a remarkable journey to becoming an urban forest paradise. With a commitment to conservation, the city is transforming its landscape into a breathtaking oasis of greenery. Each new tree planted represents a step towards a brighter future, improving air quality and mental well-being. The trees also provide shade, reducing energy consumption and combating the heat island effect. The city’s dedication and meticulous planning, along with community involvement, have made this green dream a reality. Durham stands as a shining example of the potential of urban forestry and a better future.

Green Goodbyes: Eco-Friendly Ways to Dispose of Your Christmas Tree

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As the festive cheer of the holiday season fades, many of us face the task of saying goodbye to our cherished Christmas trees. While these trees have brought joy and beauty to our homes, it’s crucial to consider their impact on the environment beyond the holiday season. Disposing of Christmas trees in an eco-friendly manner is not just a responsible choice but a significant step towards sustainability. In this article, we’ll explore various green methods to dispose of your Christmas tree, ensuring that its departure from your home is as environmentally friendly as its stay. From composting in your backyard to participating in local recycling programs, there are numerous ways to ensure that your tree continues to benefit the earth long after the holiday lights have dimmed. Let’s dive into the world of eco-conscious disposal methods, making green goodbyes a new, responsible tradition for the end of the holiday season.

Understanding Your Christmas Tree’s Lifecycle

A Christmas tree’s journey doesn’t have to end on the curb as trash. By understanding the natural lifecycle of these trees, we can better appreciate the importance of their eco-friendly disposal. Most Christmas trees are cultivated over several years, absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, and providing habitat for wildlife before becoming a centerpiece in our holiday celebrations. After the holidays, these trees still hold significant ecological value, capable of returning nutrients to the soil and continuing their role in the natural cycle.

Eco-friendly disposal methods not only prevent unnecessary waste but also allow these trees to contribute positively to the environment post-Christmas. Whether it’s through composting, mulching, or creative reuse, we have the power to extend the life and utility of our Christmas trees, turning a symbol of holiday joy into a beacon of environmental stewardship. In the following sections, we will explore various ways to ensure that your Christmas tree continues to benefit our planet in its post-holiday life.

At-Home Eco-Friendly Disposal Methods

Composting: Composting your Christmas tree is a great way to return it to the earth and enrich your garden. To compost your tree effectively, start by removing all decorations, tinsel, and lights. Chop or shred the tree into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition process. Layer these pieces with other green and brown compost materials in your compost bin or heap. Over time, the tree will break down and turn into nutrient-rich compost, perfect for enhancing your soil.

Mulching: Mulching is another excellent way to utilize your old Christmas tree. You can either use a wood chipper or ask a local tree service to chip the tree for you. The resulting mulch can be spread around your garden beds, offering a natural weed barrier and moisture retention for your plants. It’s a sustainable way to recycle your tree and benefit your garden simultaneously.

Creative Reuse: For those who love DIY projects, your Christmas tree offers numerous creative reuse opportunities. Branches can be trimmed and used to create natural garden pathways, bird feeders, or even rustic coasters for your home. The trunk can be cut into sections for garden edging or carved into decorative items. These projects not only give your tree a new life but also add a personal touch to your garden and home.

Community-Based Disposal Options

Local Recycling Programs: Many communities offer Christmas tree recycling programs that convert trees into mulch or wood chips for public spaces. These programs are often advertised by municipal websites or environmental organizations. Participation in these programs not only ensures responsible disposal of your tree but also contributes to the beautification and health of community spaces.

Drop-off Locations: Designated drop-off locations for Christmas trees are a convenient method for eco-friendly disposal. These locations often operate on specific dates and times during the post-holiday season. Ensure your tree is free from all decorations and non-organic materials before dropping it off. This straightforward method supports local environmental efforts while responsibly disposing of your tree.

Municipal Pick-Up Services: Municipalities provide curbside pick-up services for Christmas trees. These services typically follow specific schedules and require preparation of the tree, such as cutting it to a certain size or removing all decorations. Utilizing these services ensures eco-friendly disposal without the need for personal transportation.

Specific Options in Durham, Chapel Hill and Hillsborough, NC

Durham’s Waste Disposal and Recycling Center: Starting from January 2nd until February 3rd, live trees can be disposed of free of charge at Durham’s Waste Disposal and Recycling Center, located at 2115 E. Club Blvd. The center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 7:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, making it accessible for most residents.

Park Drop-off Locations: In addition to the Waste Disposal and Recycling Center, Durham is offering free tree drop-offs at seven different park locations. These parks are hosting drop-offs on January 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th, from 7 a.m. to noon. The locations include:

  • C.M. Herndon Park (511 Scott King Road)
  • Valley Springs Park (3805 Valley Springs Rd.)
  • Rock Quarry Park (701 Stadium Dr.)
  • Merrick-Moore Park (632 N. Hoover Rd.)
  • Southern Boundaries Park (3400 Third Fork Rd.)
  • Bethesda Park (1814 Stage Rd.)
  • Campus Hills (parking lot, 2000 S. Alston Ave.)

Solid Waste Management crews will be available at these sites to assist residents with their tree disposals. This service ensures that your Christmas tree is disposed of in an eco-friendly manner, contributing to the sustainability of the community.

Curbside Collection in Chapel Hill: Part of the regular yard trimmings schedule. Trees should be free from decorations and tinsel before being placed curbside. For apartment complexes, trees should be placed in designated areas alongside dumpsters. For more information, visit Trash and Yard Trimmings Collection | Town of Chapel Hill, NC.

Disposal in Hillsborough and Chapel Hill: Residents can dispose of their Christmas trees at the following eco-friendly locations:

  • Walnut Grove Church Rd. Waste & Recycling Center, Hillsborough
    3605 Walnut Grove Church Road, Hillsborough, NC, 27278
    Contact: (919) 968-2788
  • Ferguson Rd. Waste & Recycling Center, Chapel Hill
    1616 Ferguson Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516
    Contact: (919) 968-2788
  • High Rock Rd. Waste & Recycling Center, Efland
    7001 High Rock Road, Efland, NC 27243
    Contact: (919) 968-2788
  • Orange County Disposal Center (Landfill), Chapel Hill
    Solid Waste Convenience Center, 1514 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514
    Contact: (919) 968-2788
  • Eubanks Rd Waste & Recycling Center, Chapel Hill
    1518 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516

Alternative Eco-Friendly Disposal Methods for Christmas Trees

Christmas trees offer a variety of ecological benefits even after the holiday season. Here are some innovative and environmentally friendly ways to repurpose your Christmas tree:

Soil Erosion Barriers

Communities often use Christmas trees to create barriers against soil and sand erosion. This is especially useful for stabilizing shorelines and river deltas, as seen in projects like “Balsams for Brookies.”

Fish Feeders

In private fish ponds, submerged Christmas trees provide excellent refuge and feeding areas for fish, enhancing the aquatic ecosystem.

Bird Feeders

Transform your Christmas tree into a bird sanctuary in your garden or backyard. Decorate the tree with bird-friendly items like fresh orange slices or strung popcorn to attract birds, providing them shelter and food.

Mulch for Gardens

Christmas trees are biodegradable and can be chipped into mulch for garden use. This not only recycles the tree but also provides a natural nutrient-rich covering for your plants.

Paths for Hiking Trails

Some counties recycle shredded Christmas trees as natural, renewable path material for hiking trails. This method aligns well with environmental needs and the requirements of hikers.

Living, Rooted Trees

If you opted for a rooted Christmas tree (ball and burlap or containerized), consider planting it in your yard after the holidays. This is particularly successful in mild climates and adds a lasting green legacy to your garden.

Each of these alternative methods not only ensures the eco-friendly disposal of Christmas trees but also enriches our local ecosystems in unique and sustainable ways.

Embracing Sustainability: The Lasting Legacy of Your Christmas Tree

As we close this guide on eco-friendly Christmas tree disposal, it’s important to reflect on the broader significance of these practices. Each method we choose, whether it’s recycling, creative repurposing, or participating in community initiatives, represents a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious way of living. Our Christmas trees, symbols of joy and celebration, can continue to make a positive impact long after the holiday season ends. By adopting these green disposal methods, we not only care for our immediate environment but also contribute to a larger movement of ecological stewardship. Let’s carry this spirit of sustainability forward, making each green goodbye a meaningful act that nurtures and respects our planet.

Exploring Tree Equity

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The Power of Trees in Our Cities

Hey tree enthusiasts! I’d like to delve into a topic close to my heart: Tree Equity. This concept goes beyond mere greenery; it’s about ensuring every community, especially those historically underserved, benefits from the joys and advantages of trees. I’ve been exploring the Tree Equity Score, a fascinating tool that focuses on this topic.

Why Does Tree Equity Matter?

Tree equity aims to ensure the fair distribution of trees in communities, regardless of wealth. It recognizes the many benefits trees offer, from improving air quality to reducing stress. Wealthier neighborhoods often have more trees, while lower-income areas suffer from the negative effects of inadequate tree cover. Tree equity addresses this by advocating for strategic planting in disadvantaged communities. It also acknowledges the economic and social benefits of well-forested neighborhoods. For more on this, check out American Forests for a deeper understanding of why tree equity is crucial.

A Look Back: How History Shapes Our Urban Forests

Redlining, a policy from the early 20th century, systematically denied financial services to minority neighborhoods, leaving a lasting impact on tree coverage. These marginalized areas face environmental and health disparities compared to wealthier, predominantly white neighborhoods. Understanding redlining’s historical context reveals the unequal distribution of green spaces and urban heat islands. This historical context is crucial to understanding current disparities. From a historical perspective, NCRC’s article on redlining provides valuable insights.

Demystifying the Tree Equity Score

The Tree Equity Score measures tree coverage in neighborhoods, helping identify areas that need more trees. It ensures every neighborhood has enough trees for their benefit. By using advanced technology, American Forests has created a database that assesses tree coverage block-by-block. The map shows areas lacking trees and helps prioritize planting efforts. The website offers an easy-to-use interface to explore data and take action. Cities across the US are using this tool to guide reforestation programs. The Tree Equity Score promotes equal access to tree benefits and creates greener and fairer cities.

The Real Impact of Tree Equity

Tree equity goes beyond aesthetics and includes air quality and temperature regulation. Trees act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, improving air quality. They also regulate temperature, reducing the heat island effect in urban areas. Efforts are being made to enhance tree coverage through tree-planting campaigns and community programs. The USDA Forest Service’s Urban Forests page provides valuable information on the benefits of urban forests and the importance of tree equity in promoting sustainability. Increasing tree coverage can create healthier, more sustainable environments for future generations.

New Policies: A Ray of Hope

New policies to reduce inflation and promote environmental justice bring hope. They focus on bringing more trees to communities that need them the most, improving their quality of life. The Inflation Reduction Act aims to address economic disparities and enable low-income households to access essential resources like trees. The Justice40 campaign seeks to rectify historical injustices by directing 40% of climate and clean energy benefits to disadvantaged neighborhoods. The EPA’s Justice40 Initiative provides valuable information on these policies, emphasizing community engagement and collaboration.

Final Thoughts

Tree equity is essential for a greener and fairer future. It ensures that all communities, regardless of their socio-economic status, have equal access to the benefits of trees. By planting trees in underserved neighborhoods, we improve residents’ quality of life and create spaces for them to connect with nature. Moreover, trees can improve air quality and public health by absorbing pollutants and reducing stress levels. Prioritizing tree equity is not only about the environment but also about social justice, as marginalized communities have historically faced environmental injustices. We should be working together to create a world where every community thrives under the shade of trees.