Two Delaware agencies team up in support of Forest Initiative Fund
DOVER — The Delaware Department of Transportation is partnering with the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service to plant more than 12,100 trees in support of the …
You must be a member to read this story.
Join our family of readers for as little as $5 per month and support local, unbiased journalism.
Already a member? Log in to continue. Otherwise, follow the link below to join.
Please log in to continue |
Two Delaware agencies team up in support of Forest Initiative Fund
By Mike FinneyThe Delaware Department of Transportation is partnering with the Delaware Forest Service to plant more than 12,100 trees in support of the Forest Initiative Fund.
The fund was created by the Forest Service to address water quality and air quality, and improve overall life for Delawareans through the planting of trees.
It is designed to enhance both rural and urban forests, as well provide ease to landowners and communities.
Trees are being planted along the POW/MIA Parkway, west of Charles Polk Road in Dover and along Del. 1, south of Johnson Road, in Lincoln. They are a variety of sizes and species, ranging from small seedlings to large specimens.
In addition, some flowering species to support pollinators for beautification will be included.
“These recent plantings are a great representation of state agencies working together to promote sustainable forestry efforts for future generations,” said Delaware state forester Kyle Hoyd. “The development of the Forest Initiative Fund created an opportunity for DelDOT to partner with the Delaware Department of Agriculture’s Delaware Forest Service to create new forests and reduce maintenance costs for the agency.
“It has been a pleasure working with DelDOT to find innovative ways to implement tree plantings alongside of our roadways, which will help with stormwater filtration, air quality and aesthetics for our local residents and visitors.”
With the Transportation Department owning a large portion of land, the partnership should provide multiple opportunities to collaborate.
“In addition to the many environmental benefits trees provide, these afforestation projects will also reduce approximately 20 acres of mowing, ... and we are continuing to look at other areas across the state where we can do additional plantings,” said Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski.
Even though the Forest Initiative Fund is in its first year, and the only such program since the Forest Service’s implementation in 1927, it has resulted in the planting of 77,000 trees by private and public landowners.
