Middletown’s Sustainability Committee applauds the town’s efforts in practicing sustainable land management. Residents are urged to learn as much as they can about Middletown's Forest Conservation efforts and to pursue the many simple ways to help. The Middletown Sustainability Committee would like to share with the community more detailed information about the Middletown Gift Tree and Bench Program.
Middletown Gift Tree Program
A tree planted in someone's memory is a living tribute that benefits present and future generations and is perhaps the most fitting memorial gift of all. Honor a special person or event with a native tree in Middletown. The Middletown Gift Tree program provides opportunity for others to be involved in contributing to our heritage through sponsoring trees that are being planted within Middletown parks and open spaces.
Plant a tree in someone's name - a unique and green gift to celebrate events such as:
● Birth of a child
● Wedding
● Anniversary
● Death
● Graduation
● Baptism
● Birthday
● Bar/Bat Mitzvah
● Team Championship
● A living memorial can be a gift to honor someone who is special. It can be that influential schoolteacher; a coach; or congratulate someone for a special accomplishment. As the planted memorial tree grows or flowers, remembrance will be given to the honored.
Native trees are those that occur naturally in a region in which they evolved. They are the ecological basis upon which life depends, including birds and people. Without them and the insects that co-evolved with them, local birds cannot survive. For example, research by the entomologist Doug Tallamy has shown that native oak trees support over 500 species of caterpillars whereas ginkgos, a commonly planted landscape tree from Asia, host only 5 species of caterpillars. When it takes over 6,000 caterpillars to raise one brood of chickadees, that is a significant difference.
Helping the Climate:
Planting trees can combat climate change. Native trees, especially long-living trees like oaks and maples, are effective at storing the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.
Conserving Water:
Because native trees are adapted to local environmental conditions, they require far less water, saving time, money, and perhaps the most valuable natural resource, water.
Wildlife:
In addition to providing vital habitat for birds, many other species of wildlife benefits as well. They provide protective shelter for many mammals. The native nuts, seeds, and fruits produced by these trees offer essential foods for all forms of wildlife.
Trees provide many years of service in regard to maintaining our ecosystem. Trees clean our air, absorbing harmful carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. They help to clean water for the millions of Americans who depend on a forest every time they turn on their faucets. Healthy forests sustain critical habitat needed for wildlife and enhance our own outdoor pursuits. Trees that are planted today will be enjoyed by generations to follow – and since trees provide so many natural benefits, it is a gift that keeps on giving.
To purchase a Gift Tree:
1) Complete and return the application.
2) You will be contacted to finalize details and Tree Tag wording.
3) Tree will be ordered when payment is received.
4) A Certificate of Acknowledgement will be sent to the donor.
5) Your Memorial Tree will be planted in the Fall.
Gift Tree with a Memorial Bench:
Donors have an option to purchase both a bench and tree. Please submit both applications together. After you return your application, you will be contacted to finalize details and select a tree.