Past
Chimborazo Park Community Tree Planting
With a Church Hill Association grant, the Conservancy partnered with Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Richmond Parks & Rec to plant 94 trees—over 90% native species—in upper Chimborazo Park. Mayor Avula joined volunteers for this first phase of canopy recovery, supporting Richmond's Tree City USA status.
This event has passed, but read below for a recap. You can also view the original event details here:
Through a grant from the Church Hill Association's Parks and Beautification Committee, the Conservancy partnered with Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) and Richmond Parks and Recreation to plan and accomplish phase one of the recovery and expansion of the tree canopy within upper Chimborazo Park.
Planning began in February 2025, followed by three walk-throughs to map replacement trees. The existing trees in upper Chimborazo were at just 22% native population. Native tree and plant populations support a myriad of elements in the environment—from pollinators and wildlife to the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed—and are also the most durable within our specific climate. CBF planner Ann Jurczyk designed a plan for 94 trees that came in at over 90% native species.
Parks and Recreation, led by Michael Gee and Kate Rivera, provided the support to make planting 94 trees an extraordinary and easy volunteer event over two days. The holes were augured out for us, and biochar fertilizer, water, tree diapers, mulch, and Tree Steward personnel were provided to assist with proper planting techniques.
Mayor Danny Avula joined City leadership to dig in for the first tree, setting up Richmond to continue as a Tree City USA for the coming year. Urban Forestry and crew also displayed the newly launched Urban Forestry Master Plan for the City.
We appreciate everyone's efforts greatly and look forward to future phases and restoration projects.