Parks and Recreation departments all over the United States receive numerous requests each year, from individuals, families, coworkers and friends, wishing to donate a tree to honor an individual or in memory of a loved one who has passed on.  Businesses often wish to contribute to the local ecology and help their community defray some of the cost of park improvements by sponsoring tree plantings.  Planting a tree provides a living, growing legacy benefiting the environment for years to come, providing food and shelter for wildlife and beauty for all those who pass by.

New Trees

1. Trees are purchased by the donor and planted by the Parks Groundskeeper.  Donors will work with GJRPC staff to select the species and size tree appropriate for each location.

2. Donors will work with GJRPC staff on a planting location. Location requests will be honored if possible, but it must be in keeping with the GJRPC’s master plan.

3. Requests to fund a commemorative tree may be made at any time of the year, but planting time (usually Spring or Fall) will be determined by the GJRPC.

4. The donor will be informed of the scheduled planting time and location in order to offer the opportunity for the donor to be present. Family and friends are welcome to hold a ceremony during or after the planting; however the GJRPC does not have the staff or resources to assist with the ceremony.

5. The cost of a commemorative tree will vary with its size and type.  Once the tree species is chosen, donors will be responsible for  paying the nursery directly for the purchase of the tree plus the  delivery fee to the planting site. In addition, a one-time $200 planting and perpetual maintenance fee payable to the GJRPC is required.

6. An engraved plaque identifying the species and donor or loved one may be installed according to the GJRPC standards near the commemorative tree.  See link for plaques sizes, materials and prices.

7. The GJRPC will take reasonable care to preserve in place all newly planted trees. Donors must realize, however, there may be conditions beyond the GJRPC’s control that may threaten donated plantings. Trees are living things with limited life spans and are subject to natural disasters, vandalism, disease and abuse. The  GJRPC will not replace a donated tree unless the tree dies within one year of planting.

8. The GJRPC maintenance staff will maintain all trees until they die, become a hazard or must be removed for a building project. If the tree must be moved, the donor will be notified of the new location. The memorial plaque will be moved with the tree.

9. To participate in the Commemorative Tree Program, complete a request form which is available at the GJRPC office or on-line here.

Adopt-a-Tree

1. Established and newly planted trees may be adopted. In most cases, the risk of losing the tree to the elements is reduced. Adopting a tree means that you will be funding the care and maintenance of a tree that is already providing shade, oxygen and beauty to residents.

2. The one-time cost of adopting a tree is $300.

3. For all other details, see New Trees.