Gift Trees Planting Project – New Jersey

Project Description

This Gift Tree Planting Project is in Newark, New Jersey, in the Abington Avenue School neighborhood.  This project is part of The Gifted Tree’s urban forestry projects where donations, instead of planting individual trees, will help plant groves of trees in urban areas – neighborhood parks, schools, and urban campuses – ensuring environmental justice in city-centered projects where trees are desperately needed. The trees planted are more mature in their growth cycle and average 3-6 feet in height when planted, helping to ensure long-term survivability and the ability to thrive in this urban area setting.

Newark has been subject to environmental injustices for decades due to high amounts of industry, development, and air and water pollution, and nearly all of Newark is designated as an overburdened community by the EPA. Most Newark residents have limited access to green space, and this project will help ensure that everyone has access to trees and the benefits they provide- air pollution removal, stormwater pollution capture, carbon sequestration, and urban heat regulation – regardless of their zip code or income levels. The tree planting events planned with this project will also help to bring neighbors together and build communities.

Many species will be planted to develop a diverse and resilient tree canopy and include Eastern Redbud, Hawthorn, Flowering Cherry, Lilac, and Maple, all native to the area. Your trees will be part of a healthy forest system and will protect biodiversity, creating habitat for migrating birds and pollinators. Additionally, your trees will provide social benefits, allowing the residents the opportunity to experience and enjoy their natural space and the resulting health benefits that open green space provides.