THE LEAFLET

It’s time to celebrate Land Conservation Month and commemorate Land Trust Day, which took place on June 1st. This time of year provides a poignant reminder of the vital role greenspaces play in our communities and the importance of protecting these natural treasures for future generations.

At Casey Trees, our mission is to restore, enhance, and protect the tree canopy of the nation’s capital. One of the key strategies we employ to safeguard our greenspaces is through our Conservation Easement Program.

Casey Trees’ land conservation program aims to restore fragmented patches of urban forest, enhance urban ecosystems and public health, and protect green space for trees to grow and neighbors to connect with nature. We work with local landowners to steward natural areas and improve the conditions of those sites.

Green spaces work as protective buffers to slow down and retain stormwater runoff, reduce ambient air temperatures, improve air quality, provide habitat for wildlife and reduce heating and cooling costs. In addition, they provide gathering places for communities to recreate and connect with one another.

Throughout the month, we will be highlighting various easement locations every week in the Leaflet. These features will give you an inside look at the diverse and beautiful areas we are working to protect. From lush urban forests to serene city parks, these stories will showcase the importance of conservation efforts and the impact they have on our community.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Land Conservation Month! Here are a few ways you can get involved: 

Join us for a Tree Care at Turkey Thicket Recreation Center! Help us care for young trees. Your help with weeding, mulching and watering these vulnerable trees will give them a leg up in becoming an important part of our growing tree canopy. We provide all the necessary tools and supplies to care for trees and participants will receive a short, hands-on training on site.

Consider making a donation to support our conservation initiatives at Buena Vista Terrace! By donating to the project, you will be contributing to the first phase of improvements by addressing the re-emerging invasive species and preparing the site for future phases. Elements currently in the final plans include an arbor portal to welcome visitors into the site, a remembrance wall for those lost to violence within the community, terraced seating, a multi-purpose platform with mural and chalk walls, storm water management, and various plantings to beautify the site.

Come out to Land Conservation Day at Hellbender Brewing Company! Join us on our conservation easement “Hellbender Hill” to celebrate all the benefits of protected green spaces. The fun will include tree tours, live music, raffles & games, BBQ food truck, Casey Trees merch, and an exclusive Casey Trees seasonal beer!

Together, we can make a lasting difference in preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of our city. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to protecting our greenspaces. Happy Land Conservation Month!