The Spring for Rye campaign, created two years ago to bring two hundred native trees to the four Rye school campuses, celebrated the successful planting of these gifts that will bring beauty and ecological benefit for generations. School officials and supporters gathered at the Rye High School and Middle school campus on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate and unveil a plaque thanking the myriad of supporters who raised the $200,000 to fund the invasive removal, native tree planting by professional landscapers and replacement costs for any trees that don’t make it.
“[The native trees are] highly beneficial to the whole range of animals, insects and animals living in our ecosystem,” said Lucy Berkoff of the Spring for Rye team, explaining they had to strategize how to remove and combat the continuing spread of invasive plants. “So the idea was to plant enough of the straight species native that they would start seeding [themselves].”
“I thank our district for caring for these beautiful additions as we see them grow. These trees will teach our children to be grounded while bringing them joy,” said Daniela Arredondo, a school parent and key supporter of the project. “Thank you again to our Rye families whose generous donations helped fund these 200 trees, our school district for their support and the incredible leaders of this green project, Lucy Jen and Rob.”
The maps below show the planting plans for each of the school campuses (there were some, mostly minor, variations from the plans, especially on the Midland campus). Curious about great native trees for your property? Read our recent Going Native gardening series where experts tell you about ecologically beneficial and beautiful native trees for both sunny and shady location.
VIDEOS – speakers at the dedication and b-roll of trees at two of the school campuses:
