Greening the Gateway Cities Springfield

Young trees are particularly vulnerable to cold weather because their roots, bark, and branches are not yet fully hardened. Freezing temperatures can damage or kill tender buds, cause bark splitting, and stress the tree, making it more susceptible to disease. Frost and ice accumulation can break weak branches, while exposed roots may suffer from freeze damage. Protecting young trees with mulch, tree wraps, or temporary barriers helps insulate them and increases their chances of surviving harsh winter conditions.

Big shout-out to the Bear Hole Trail Race! The annual event in West Springfield brought out dozens of runners and raised funds to support environmental education and trail stewardship in our community — helping local students learn about nature and supporting ongoing conservation efforts on the Bear Hole trails.

Watering your new tree is the single best thing you can do to ensure its establishment and survival. To make it simple and easy, each tree we plant includes a 15-gallon water bag - just stick the hose in and fill it up!

Make sure to water your tree at least once a week and keep an eye out for signs of drought stress!

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We are gearing up for a busy Spring planting season! 300+ trees are already planned to go into the ground across the City this Spring! There is still time to join the fun and get your free tree(s)!! Call 3-1-1 today to request a site visit to get the ball rolling!

If you did not already know, our program is able to plant across every neighborhood in the city - that means every resident and business is eligible for FREE TREES! Once the Spring planting season is filled, we will begin siting trees for this Fall. It is always a great time of year to request your FREE TREE(S)!

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