Dozens of volunteers from Evanston’s two Rotary clubs, assisted by students from the area’s middle schools, high schools, scout troops, and Northwestern University, among others, assisted city employees in planting 100 trees in four parks this weekend, aided by ideal spring weather.
Some 25 trees each were planted in James Park, Elliott Park, Twiggs Park, and Harbert Park.
Much of the tough digging was accomplished with the help of the city’s Bobcat machinery, but many of the holes were dug by volunteers with shovels, following a brief instructional session provided by Parks Department personnel.
Among the varieties planted were Burr Oak, Shingle Oak, Eastern Redbud, River Birch, Frontier Elm, and Kentucky Coffee, according to city arborist Peter D’Agostino.
Financial support for the Trees for Evanston Parks project was provided by the Celtic Knot Pub and the Lincolnwood Garden Club of Evanston, while the city will take over responsibility for the care of the newly planted trees..