Forty-nine new trees were recently parted along the Esplanade, courtesy of the Esplanade Association.
As part of its L.E.A.F. (Lasting Esplanade Arbor Fund), the nonprofit’s three-person Horticulture Team planted myriad tree species or cultivars, 12 of which are new to the park, including Crabapple, Honeylocust, Sugar Maple, Serviceberry, and Carolina Silverbell.
“During a time when so much of the state was closed, the Esplanade Association’s essential horticulture staff planted the largest number of trees in our organization’s history,” said Michael Nichols, executive director. “A healthy tree canopy is a critical tool in our effort to make the Esplanade both climate resilient and a welcoming habitat for birds and other wildlife.”
All the new trees were planted along the Esplanade in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Recreation while the L.E.A.F. Initiative’s tree diversification efforts intend to bolster the health of the park’s tree canopy against pests and plagues for years to come.
“[The Esplanade] is a priceless natural resource offering a wide variety of recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy year round,” said DCR Commissioner Jim Montgomery. “Continuing the stewardship of the Esplanade’s tree canopy will ensure the park remains a thriving public space, and the Baker-Polito Administration is pleased to continue its public-private partnership with the Esplanade Association as part of the agency’s Partnerships Matching Funds Program.”