Environmental protection and climate change are seen by future generations as the leading challenge of their time, yet many worry their predecessors aren’t taking action.  Ours clubs determined that a tree planting project would enhance the livability of our community while engaging a new generation in service by displaying that the things important to them are important to Rotary. Coincidentally, a month into our planning, President Ian Riseley presented a challenge to plant a tree for all 1.2 million Rotarians in recognition of “our responsibility not only to the people on our planet, but to the planet itself.” 

We are proud that this effort will enhance the daily lives of the community surrounding Svob Park in Tempe. Past concerns prevented planners from planting near sidewalks, yet recent trials have proven that given the right species and care, trees will not impact hardscaping. Accordingly, many of the trees planned are meant to shade the perimeter of the park. Tempe continues to be the most walkable city in all of Arizona, but more shade is needed to allow pedestrians to walk comfortably year around. This is an asset our great city and Rotarians alike are committed to providing.

 

One of the unique features of this project is the North Pole Grove. When planning with the City, we discussed an area that will have desert adapted pines to honor Patrick de Haan and his work bringing the magic of Christmas to homeless, impoverished and special needs children. We were delighted to find when the City had completed their drawings that a small grove of Mondell Pines was planned. 

 

The tree sponsors include:
Ralph Walker Fund (c/o Tempe Downtown Rotary Club)
Arizona Surgical
Brightview Tree Planting Services
Edwards Design Group

 

Tree Planting Project: November 18, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at Svob Park, 2600 W. Vineyard Road, Tempe, AZ 85282