ASEZ WAO Volunteers Plant 300 Trees in Stewart State Forest, NY

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, 68 ASEZ WAO volunteers from the Church of God in New Windsor, NY, along with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC), planted 300 trees in Stewart State Forest. This effort is part of the ASEZ WAO Mother’s Forest campaign to plant 7 billion trees worldwide.

A First for Stewart State Forest

This event marked the first-ever tree planting at Stewart State Forest, a 6,700-acre area with wetlands, fields, and forests. To begin, volunteers planted native species such as red oak, sycamore, red maple, silver maple, white pine, and silky dogwood. In addition, they planted black chokeberry, red osier dogwood, sweet gum, bare oak, and pussy willow.

The planting took place on a former agricultural field once used for corn cultivation for decades. Consequently, the shift from farming to forest represents a major step in restoring the natural habitat. Reflecting on this, Michael Callan, the NYDEC’s Region 3 Supervisor of Forestry, said, “It’s nice to push the clock forward by getting native tree species established here. Planting 300 trees for the long term means even your grandkids will benefit from it.”

Furthermore, reforestation supports more carbon sequestration and boosts local biodiversity. Planting native tree species also speeds up the natural regeneration process, which would otherwise take decades. Each tree contributes to oxygen production and offers benefits lasting centuries, with some trees living up to 200 years.

The Key to Successful Tree Planting

On the morning of the event, the volunteers faced a heavy rainfall. Despite initially appearing as an obstacle, it was actually the key to making it a success. “Rain will always make the planting successful,” a NYDEC forester explained. “What kills most tree planting efforts is a lack of rain.” The timely rainfall provided the moisture needed for the newly planted trees to establish their roots and grow in their new environment.

To begin the planting, volunteers received a demonstration on proper planting techniques. The foresters emphasized the importance of eliminating air pockets and correctly positioning the soil around the tree’s root base. NYDEC foresters also provided education on identifying tree species and understanding their growth patterns.

Unity for Reforestation

Inspired by the volunteers’ passionate and energetic spirit, NYDEC foresters hope to make this event an annual event, creating a community focused on conservation and education.

The teamwork of ASEZ WAO volunteers and NYDEC has set an example for future reforestation projects in Stewart State Forest. By planting native trees in an old farm field, they are creating a stronger, healthier ecosystem for future generations. This project improves the local environment and supports the global goal of planting 7 billion trees, showing a shared dedication to a sustainable future.

To view more ASEZ WAO events in New York, visit the activities page.