Brucemore received a donation of 38 trees through the Trees Forever Campus Canopy 10+ program. Staff and volunteers from both organizations planted the trees along one perimeter of the 26-acre property on April 17, kicking off the 2024 planting season and celebrating Earth Week.
The nationally significant Brucemore estate lost over 450 trees or more than 75% of the property’s tree canopy due to an August 2020 derecho windstorm. Following initial efforts to remove debris and damaged trees from the property, Brucemore staff have turned their attention to a multi-year revitalization effort.
“We have planted over 500 new trees and shrubs on the estate already and have more work to do,” said Chief Operating Officer Tara Richards. “We are seizing the opportunity to plant more than we lost, believing it is our job to leave the landscape and community in a better place for those who follow us.”
Brucemore’s Landscape Restoration Project aims to revitalize public usability, restore a healthy ecological space, utilize native species and storm-resistant techniques, make maintenance improvements, and rebuild historical accuracy for visitor education and enjoyment of the estate. Over 400 individual donors, companies, and granting organizations have generously supported the efforts to date.
The Trees Forever Campus Canopy 10+ Program has been designed for local businesses and nonprofits with locations needing 10 or more trees that are planted and cared for by volunteers. This is one of several programs designed to involve neighborhoods and residents in post-derecho tree recovery.
Donations to support ongoing efforts to care for the Brucemore estate can be made to the Preservation Fund, by calling (319) 362-7375, or by sending a check to 2160 Linden Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.
About Trees Forever
Trees Forever’s mission – to plant and care for trees and the environment by empowering people, building community, and promoting stewardship – is fulfilled through cutting-edge programs and innovative practices. Through these, trained and experienced staff assist community leaders and landowners across Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin with thousands of planting projects. Each year, on average, the organization works with and engages more than 7,000 volunteers who give generously of their time and talents. To date, they have helped Trees Forever plant more than three million trees and shrubs throughout the Midwest. Click here to learn more and to support Trees Forever efforts.