No April Fool’s: Free Seeds, No Receding…Kick Off a Green Spring!

Those who are familiar with us at CRT know we work hand-in-hand with disaster relief. One particular empathetic means of support we’ve found is that when relocating a fire survivor or person in need to a new home, location, or neighborhood, a new plant can ease the transition. 

Something leafy and green can add peace to chaos, and shade to exposed areas. Plus, the idea of growth is both true and inspiring, and something for survivors to nurture on their own. At CRT, we see this natural connection firsthand through our affiliation with Landscaping with Love in Otis, a nursery whose goal is to get local fire survivors' yards replanted - everything from grass and bulbs to trees and shrubs. Thankfully, the state of Oregon is now getting into the act, and you can benefit.

The Oregon Dept. of Forestry has announced that there will be two tree seedling give-aways to help with reforestation and recovery from wildfires that took place in 2020.  The first is April 1, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and focused on restoration efforts after the Beachie Creek Fire. Marion County Environmental Services and partner organizations have an ongoing “Canyon Comeback” campaign to help restore the Santiam Canyon area that saw more than 700 homes and business properties burned. 

Area property owners can pick up seedlings at North Santiam Park.  Those wanting seedlings need to RSVP first at the Canyon Comeback website. Another way to celebrate:  A community tree planting will also take place April 2 at Packsaddle Park from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., weather permitting.

Just after the Beachie Creek event, a second seedling giveaway is focused on restoration efforts after the South Obenchain wildfire in Southern Oregon burned more than 32,000 acres. The Oregon Department of Forestry is sponsoring this event and seedlings can be picked up April 3-6 at ODF’s Southern Oregon District Office, 5286 Table Rock Road, Central Point.  

And get this: Area landowners can pick up the seedlings by the full box—each box containing approximately 400 trees. Four hundred trees! Just imagine…you could open your own fruit stand ☺ However, far more likely and more importantly, these trees will be a cool presence that nurtures rebirth in your life, the lives of your loved ones, and the community overall.

On a final note, planting with a young family member, or with a neighborhood group, can be unbelievably fulfilling. 

Pick up your seeds and a trowel and see how more than plants can blossom!