Today, Arlington Public Schools are getting a burst of green, with the announcement that 100 trees will soon be rooting themselves on school grounds. This initiative, sprouting from a partnership between the Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation’s Urban Forestry Office and the schools, is fueled by the Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant Program. It's a strategic move towards the county's ambitious canopy target, aiming to cover 40% of its urban sprawl with leaves and branches.
"We are immensely proud of the hard work and dedication our staff and the Arlington community have invested in expanding and preserving our natural landscape," said Arlington County Board Chair Libby Garvey. The roots of this project are not just to beautify but also to bring environmental education and wellness straight to the schoolyard. Particularly under the spotlight are educational institutions sitting in less tree-dense neighborhoods, with these areas chosen based on tools like the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool and the American Forests Tree Equity Program.
It's no secret that trees are more than just pretty to look at—they're fundamental to a healthier planet. Acknowledging this, Arlington Public Schools Board Chair Mary Kadera shared her gratitude, "I want to thank the County for this generous donation,” as educational and climate-related benefits bloom from these trees.
The green dollars behind these saplings are part of a larger aim to grow tree canopy coverage that, besides elevating the scenery, also shores up Virginia’s water quality. With the planting scheduled to stretch through the fall and wrap up at end of 2024, Arlington County is digging deep into its commitment to a greener future in partnership with both the APS and community advocates.
