THE LEAFLET

In a collaborative effort between Casey Trees and the City of Hyattsville, 98 new trees have found their roots in the picturesque landscape of the Hyattsville University Hills Park (also locally known as the Hyattsville Duck Pond). This endeavor marks yet another milestone in the ongoing partnership between the city and its residents to nurture and expand the area’s green canopy.

Dawn Taft, the Environmental Programs Manager for the City of Hyattsville, sheds light on the motivation behind this ambitious project. “The City of Hyattsville commissioned a study in 2019, and the results showed that we had lost 30% of our tree canopy over the last 10 years,” Taft reveals. Faced with this stark reality, the city council swiftly passed an initiative to plant 750 trees, signaling a dedicated commitment to reverse the trend of canopy loss.

“The Duck Pond is on the edge of Hyattsville, and the public park is part of public lands which belong to The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC). So, it’s really a win-win,” Taft emphasizes. This strategic location offers not only aesthetic enhancement but also tangible benefits for the community at large. The newly planted trees contribute significantly to the city’s canopy restoration goals while enriching the outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.

Reflecting on the significance of the Duck Pond as a beloved recreational spot, Taft highlights the transformative impact of the new trees. “The Duck Pond has a trail around it, well-used by Hyattsville residents and the greater community. People run, exercise, walk their dogs. And these trees are going to grow and provide more shade for those trails,” she explains. This infusion of greenery not only enhances the natural beauty of the park but also fosters a cooler, more inviting environment for outdoor activities, particularly during the hot summer months.

Beyond the immediate benefits of shade and aesthetic appeal, the event also served as a catalyst for education and engagement. “With this community event, and with our tree planting initiatives, we want people to know that we take our trees seriously – that we need trees!” Taft shared. Through programs like Healthy Trees Hyattsville, the city aims to empower residents with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the long-term health and vitality of newly planted trees. “We want people to know how to care for the trees we plant, pass on knowledge for planting, pruning, watering, and mulching – to make sure the trees we plant grow and are maintained properly too,” Taft adds.

Scroll down to enjoy some snapshots from the day!