Center Line seeks volunteers to plant trees Oct. 7

CENTER LINE — The city of Center Line, in partnership with ReLeaf Michigan and the DTE Energy Foundation, will host a tree planting event on Saturday, Oct. 7. 

Volunteers are needed to plant 20 trees in Lions Park in Center Line.

“The real issue for us is the fact that the urban forestry canopy has been depleted drastically over the last 40, 50 years. Different diseases have attacked the trees. We’re just trying to get it back to a point where the canopy is actually helping to create a cleaner air environment for the community,” said Center Line City Manager Dennis Champine. “Adding more trees soaks up the groundwater. Having trees isn’t just about beauty, it is about doing good things for the environment.”

Trees provide incredible benefits to the communities in which they are planted. In addition to improving air and water quality and reducing stormwater runoff, trees improve mental wellness, reduce childhood asthma rates, cool our neighborhoods, and enhance commercial and economic vitality, according to Releaf Michigan. 

Center Line’s tree planting event was established four years ago, according to Champine, and has resulted in more than 400 trees planted around the city, including the Autumn Blaze maple trees planted in front of City Hall about two years ago.

An array of trees will be planted this year at Lions Park, which include white oak, Triumph elm, Green Vase zelkova and Shademaster honeylocust.   

Families are welcome. The event occurs rain or shine. No planting experience is necessary. 

A tree leaves an environmental legacy that will add to the beauty of your community for generations, according to Champine.  

Again, volunteers are needed, so bring your work boots, gloves, shovels and hard rakes to Lions Park at 8517 State Park. The event starts at 8:45 a.m. and runs until noon. Register for the event by contacting Dennis Champine at dchampine@centerline.gov.