Trees Lexington has been growing a healthier future for the city of Lexington since 2016, one tree at a time. With the goal to have a flourishing tree canopy cover the city, the nonprofit organization has taken it upon themselves to initiate the change.
Tree canopies provide a significant environmental benefit to a community by helping minimize air pollution and lowering energy use. They also improve water quality by reducing runoff and erosion, filtering pollutants and allowing more water to soak into the soil instead of rushing off of paved surfaces.
In addition to improving air quality, exposure to tree-filled environments has been linked to better physical health, according to a study by Green Heart Louisville.
The organization’s HEAL study (Health, Environment and Action in Louisville) investigated how “neighborhood greenness” (trees/vegetation), air quality and other environmental factors influence health, particularly risk factors for heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
The study’s initial results show that residents who live in areas with abundant greenery have decreased hsCRP, an inflammation marker in the blood. Such results signal lower levels of inflammation and a reduced risk of heart disease.
In Lexington, Trees Lexington is working to improve the quality of life and overall health for area residents through tree giveaways, community tree plantings and educational workshops on tree care.
Planting their Lexington roots
Ten years ago, a group known as the Tree Canopy Committee was tasked by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council to promote the value of urban forestry in the city. Just one year later, the committee transformed to Trees Lexington. From that day on, the organization has worked to establish itself in the community to improve urban forestry efforts.
Since doing so, 1,222 trees have been planted by volunteers and another 4,000 given away to community members, creating a 2% increase in Lexington’s tree canopy. Looking to continue their impact, they’ve begun targeting more urban and challenging areas in hope of reaching their next goal of 30% coverage.
The nonprofit also aims to build a community that is an outlet for its members, whether it be mental relaxation or a way to learn something new.
Meeting the challenge
While progress has been made, Trees Lexington has its eye on a much bigger prize, and it can’t be done alone. To reach their goal of 30% coverage, an estimated 26,000 trees need to be planted, and they’re asking for all hands on deck.
Whether it be laying mulch, planting a tree or helping run events, any and every volunteer is appreciated. With a fluid schedule and number of events, Trees Lexington attempts to provide times for everyone who wishes to participate, no matter their tree knowledge.
With each event, proper tree care lessons and instructions are given out. By following those steps, the organization has seen an estimated 96% survival rate of its trees, creating a long-lasting impact on the community.
If you’re not looking to get your hands dirty, there are plenty of other ways to support the growth of Lexington’s tree canopy, whether it be fiscal donations, sharing their story and mission or following their journey.
Ways to help
Plant a tree! By attending a tree giveaway or community tree planting, you can make a direct impact to your community. Dates and times can be found on their website, treeslexington.org, or social media accounts.
Volunteer. No matter your skillset, there’s a place for everyone.
Fiscal donations. Monetary donations can be made online at treeslexington.org/giving
Donate goods or services. Looking beyond a financial impact? Email [email protected] to see how you can help.
Join them on their social media accounts. Instagram @treeslexington and Facebook Trees Lexington.