THE LEAFLET

Warmer weather was not the only exciting thing happening at Casey Trees this February, we’re happy to announce our new Communications Specialist, Jona Elwell.

In addition to taking over the Leaflet, Jona will also work on other digital content including our social media platforms, Tree Report Card, media outreach, and more.

Casey Trees (CT): Who is Jona Elwell?

Jona Elwell (JE): A New Jersey transplant, most days you can find me riding my bicycle, trying out a new brewery or distillery, or exploring D.C.

CT: What led you to Casey Trees?

JE: I am a firm believer that small adjustments in your daily life – commuting by bike, exposure to green spaces – can have a much larger impact than you think. So Casey Trees’ mission to restore, enhance and protect the tree canopy of D.C. really resonates to me. Plus, the first house I lived in D.C. participated in the RiverSmart Homes program, so clearly I am a fan of our mission.

CT: We have to ask – what’s your favorite Tree?

JE: As a kid I spent my summers in Maine, and our family friends have a massive catalpa tree in their yard that I would climb and play around with my cousins. It just so happens that there is a (smaller) catalpa tree outside my bedroom window in D.C., and whenever I look at it I smile (cheesy – I know).

CT: What’s your favorite D.C. weekend spot?

JE: I cannot say enough about the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, especially now that it is extended. Over 60 miles of trails in the District and Maryland are now connected! So that means I can combine all my hobbies by biking from Denizens Brewing Co. in Silver Spring all the way to Bluejacket in the Navy Yard.

CT: If you had to bring one album with you on a desert island, what would it be?

JE: Rumours by Fleetwood Mac, hands down.

CT: What are you looking forward to most here?

JE: Using digital spaces and the power of social media to interact with volunteers and supporters AND getting the word out about Casey Trees and the importance of a healthy urban tree canopy.