Tune in to hear Tom Simkins, Special Projects Coordinator for the City of Galesburg, discuss the city’s ongoing effort to plant 700 trees by year-end, building on over 600 planted since 2022. Tom covers volunteer opportunities, funding, and the impact of greening initiatives.

Key Highlights:

Progress: Over 600 trees planted since 2022, aiming for 700 by December 2025, following Project 350’s 420 trees from 2021-2024.

Volunteer Events:

• Oct. 4: 8:30 a.m., Salvation Army parking lot (Grove & Prairie), planting 23 trees in the historic district.
• Oct.11: 8:30 a.m., Hawthorne Center (Dale May Fire Training Center), planting trees on Veterans and Windish drives.

Funding: Supported by a $15,000 Community Canopy Grant from Trees Forever.

Diversity: Focus on species like elms, maples, and lilacs to combat diseases such as Emerald Ash Borer.

Community Engagement: Free terrace and memorial trees available—call 309-299-6959 or email tesimkins@gmail.com. Updates include 29 trees planned for Cooke Park in late October/November and the completed skate park.