The 2019 School Seedling Program has a deadline this month. If your are a teacher or youth leader and are looking for an outdoor activity this NYSDEC program might be a good fit. I can still remember how much fun it was to plant a tree with my science class in 7th grade. I actually wanted to plant trees everywhere after that especially in my own yard. However I lived on an army base where tree planting in your yard wasn't encourage so we stuck with smaller plants.  It worked but still not as much fun as planting trees.

This year March 31st is the deadline for the New York State DEC's School Seedling Program. The Saratoga Tree Nursery is supplying the trees for this program which is encouraging New York Schools and youth-oriented clubs to apply to receive up to 50 trees or shrubs. Schools and organizations can only receive one order per year. This is actually a great time of year to participate with Arbor Day right around the corner.

All schools in New York State are eligible to participate. Planting trees can be incorporated into a wide variety of school programs. It can be used for various subjects and is good for all age groups. The program's purpose to to help instill a caring for conservation in the next generation. The DEC also encourages the students to plant the trees on school property so that they can also be involved in caring for the seedlings while watching them grow over time.

Teachers or Club organizers can find out more by clicking here or contacting the regional office located at 21 South Putt Corners Road in New Paltz. That office services Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester Counties.

 

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