Treevitalize

There is a program that boroughs of both Lehigh and Northampton counties are working on and I wanted to take a second to describe it. The program is called Treevitalize and it will soon be operating state wide. Basically, the aim of the program is to lead to the planting of approximately one million trees across the Commonwealth. More specifically (taken from the Treevitalize website): "Treevitalize seeks an $8 million investment in tree planting and care over a four year period. Goals include planting 20,000 shade trees; restoring 1,000 acres of forests along streams and water protection areas; and training 2,000 citizens to plant and care for trees."

Indeed, trees are incredibly important to the the health and quality of life in a community. Studies have demonstrated that trees have numerous positive effects on a community, including the reducing electric bills, increasing property values and a reduction in flooding.

Locally, both Lehigh and Northampton counties have been selected to take part of a pilot program that would expand the Treevitalize program. Local municipalities in both counties can apply for up to $25,000 in grant money (or 50% of the cost of a project) to help cover the cost of these trees. For more information in Lehigh, contact Virginia Savage. In Northampton, contact Lori Sywensky.