Koreatown tree planters at work. See what a relief trees will provide in this stretch of urban streetscape. Photo courtesy Shari Godinez.
In February the Chapter’s tree-planting team received an important phone call.
Shari Godinez, staffperson to the governing council of Oakland’s Koreatown-Northgate Business Development District, had secured redevelopment funds to plant trees along Telegraph Avenue between 27th and 34th Streets. But the funds were restricted to that area; she was stuck on how to get 33 more trees planted between 20th and 27th Streets.
The Sierra Club’s tree-planting team came to the rescue. Using funds from Councilmember Nancy Nadel, Godinez got the necessary cuts made in the concrete sidewalks, and with funds from Councilmember Jane Brunner she bought the trees. Then in two weekends in February the Chapter’s own tree team planted the trees. Merchants are handling the watering duties.
Godinez said, “You saved us $10,000 we didn’t have; thank you very much.”
Chapter volunteers again made the difference; special kudos to faithful volunteers Derek Schubert, Steve Cook, Rob Callan, Laurie Chait, and Mary Sue Meads.
WhatYouCanDo
Be part of the tree-planting team. Help dig holes, plant trees, set stakes, etc.—any Saturday 9 am – 1 pm through the end of June. We provide tools and supplies. Groups from churches, schools, troops, a business, etc. can work together on a given day. Contact Arthur Boone, tree-team lead, at arboone3@gmail.com or (510)910-6451 to arrange your participation.
ARBoone, tree-team lead, Bay Chapter
