Treeforestation

With our forests facing unprecedented risks from disease, invasive species, and human development, our local trees need our help! The Civic Garden Center's Treeforestation initiative aims to restore Cincinnati forests for the benefit of community members, native wildlife, and future generations. This effort is part of a larger global movement to restore forests of all sizes in order to preserve biodiversity and combat climate change. 

Why trees?

One of the most impactful things a person can do to fight against climate change is to plant a tree. Trees take in carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and use it to grow their leaves, branches, and roots, storing all of that carbon within the tree.  That’s one of the many reasons why we focus on growing native trees to replant in our ongoing restoration sites.

However, simply planting a tree and walking away isn’t going to work. Trees haven’t evolved to survive the harsh conditions of our urban landscapes. They evolved in forests, where they have a community of other trees, plants and insects to help them grow. That’s why we take an ecological approach to forest restoration. Restoring the entire forest community results in healthier forests—and, in turn, healthier neighborhoods.

“One facet of this greenery, trees, is the largest, longest-lasting and easiest to maintain form available to us. Without them we could not exist. They add so much by way of shade, beauty, and color, to the wants of our very existence. Why not plant more of them?”  

-Cornelius J. Hauck, benefactor of the Civic Garden Center 

Our Work

Our Treeforestation program restores greenspaces to healthy, native habitats for the benefit of people and wildlife. We focus on school-based projects, engaging students and volunteers in each step of the restoration process.

We rely on volunteers to help us grow native trees and restore local habitats. Treeforestation volunteer workdays involve removing invasive species, establishing trails, and replanting native trees. We make each workday educational so that participants get to learn about the forest and the vital role people must play in restoring urban greenspaces.

Get Involved

You can support our Treeforestation efforts by volunteering or donating. Thank you for helping us restore our shared greenspaces to health!