Youth Planting Trees in Saint Paul
Saint Paul’s youth are planting a diverse treescape, revitalizing their community, one tree at a time. Through a partnership with the City of Saint Paul, Tree Trust is guiding young people to plant a more sustainable future for our capital city. Our Saint Paul planting program provides paid training for young people to not only learn to plant trees, but also explore the science of tree biology from roots to crown. This program will conclude with the addition of nearly 1,000 trees to our urban canopy. By working together, we are actively planting a greener tomorrow.
Saint Paul Planting – Tree Education Program
This planting program provides Saint Paul youth with the opportunity to earn money planting trees in their community while reviving the city tree canopy. This fall, participants will plant a green legacy along Shepard Road – a scenic Mississippi River highway that connects Saint Paul to Minneapolis. In addition, young people will explore the world of urban forestry, learning hands-on tree planting skills from Tree Trust trainers. Participants can also earn Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) credentials. These industry-recognized certifications are a great addition to any resume.
Image courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society. Shepard Road circa 1960.
A Brief History of Shepard Road
Shepard Road begins at Minnesota State Highway 5 on the east bank of the Mississippi River, running along scenic river bluffs and passing landmarks like Fort Snelling and Pike Island. As it curves northeast towards downtown Saint Paul, the road passes under several bridges and eventually changes to Warner Road, continuing alongside the Mississippi River until it reaches U.S. Highways 61 and 10. At its downtown terminus, Shepard Road meets a levy pivotal to Saint Paul’s history. It is at this intersection that steamboats once stopped, and the city began. It is no coincidence that our State Capitol towers over the banks of the mighty Mississippi.
Environmental Stewardship
This bleak parkway connecting Saint Paul to Minneapolis has lost much of its tree canopy due to the invasive pest emerald ash borer (EAB). While Saint Paul teachers take time off for MEA break this October, twenty-five Saint Paul high school students will make a difference in their community as part of the larger Saint Paul planting project. In just two days, they will plant nearly 300 healthy trees along Shepard Road in Saint Paul. Tree Trust is grateful for the opportunity to transform this important space, all while providing Saint Paul youth with a meaningful job experience.
Benefits of Trees
Tree Trust is excited to lead the planting of diverse tree species that will benefit generations to come and inspire future arborists along the way. There are many family-supporting career opportunities in the green industry. Stay tuned to Tree Trust on social media for exciting updates as we steward a green legacy for a more sustainable Saint Paul.
