New Jersey Tree Foundation

The Urban Airshed Reforestation Program is a community-based street tree planting program that began in Camden in 2002. We serve the City of Camden and surrounding South Jersey cities based on our resources. Designed to improve air quality, manage stormwater, and provide shade, the Urban Airshed Reforestation Program has removed approximately 90,813 square feet of impervious surface to plant 8,008 trees along city streets.

Prioritizing grassroots work, the Urban Airshed Reforestation Program empowers residents to create positive changes in their own communities. Residents directly apply for and adopt trees, help organize events, and assist with the planting of each tree. To date, the Urban Airshed Reforestation Program has engaged approximately 16,077 volunteers from all walks of life in beautifying South Jersey’s cities.

The Renaissance Trees Program is a community-based reforestation effort that began in 2006 in the City of Newark. We serve the City of Newark and surrounding North Jersey cities based on our resources. Created to increase the tree canopy, improve the environment, and enhance the quality of life in New Jersey’s largest city, the Renaissance Trees Program has planted 4,406 trees. More than 22,371 square feet of concrete has been removed, improving stormwater management and promoting a healthier community forest.

Residents apply for a neighborhood tree planting, agreeing to plant and maintain the trees. To date, the Renaissance Trees Program has engaged more than 9,318 volunteers from all walks of life in beautifying North Jersey’s cities.

Each tree planting season, the NJ Tree Foundation partners with the New Jersey Parole Board to hire men for a tree planting crew, creating transitional jobs for individuals under parole supervision.

Transitional jobs are time-limited jobs that combine real work, skill development, and support services to help participants overcome barriers to employment. Since spring 2006, this program has planted 18,956 trees and employed 119 parolees.

Our Education Outreach program delivers TreeKeepers, a hands-on

training program provided in communities where we have planted to equip residents with the skills and tools necessary to receive maximum environmental impact through consistent tree maintenance. TreeKeepers training includes a presentation of concepts followed by hands-on practice

with tools and other resources provided for the participants to keep, free of charge.

Our Education Outreach program also delivers fun and engaging presentations to schools and youth programs. Our programs utilize Project Learning Tree, Project WET, and Project WILD. Specific focus will be placed on PLT

activities utilizing i-Tree Design, teaching students how to use this tool, and encouraging them to use their new skills in service to their community.