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 featuring wetlands, fields, and forests. Volunteers planted a variety of native species, including red oak, bare oak, sycamore, red maple, silver maple, white pine, black chokeberry, silky dogwood, red osier dogwoods, sweet gum, and pussy willow.

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

Reforestation encourages more carbon sequestration and local biodiversity. Planting native tree species also accelerates the natural regeneration process, which would otherwise take a very long time. Each tree planted contributes positively to oxygen production and offers long-term benefits, with the potential lifespan of these trees reaching 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.