Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District has released their Conservation Tree and Shrub species list for the spring of 2015.
Offered for pre-order this year are more than 59 different species of bare-root conifers, hardwood trees, shrubs, wildflowers and groundcovers, as well as seed mixes and other products used for conservation projects. Packages range in unit size and price, from a bundle of 10 plants for as low as $11, to bundles of 100 plants for an average cost of $84. New species this year include: American Hornbeam, Coralberry, Fraser Fir, Hackberry and Tulip Tree.
The Conservation District has also updated their selection of multi-packs where homeowners can choose from 8 pre-packaged plant combinations that help accommodate a homeowner’s conservation needs. Rather than receiving a single pack of ten trees/shrubs composed of one species, the multi-packs offer two plants in five different species; perfect for the suburban conservationist. Many of these multi-packs have been revamped this year with new species options. As always, species adapted to Monroe County site conditions have been selected to provide a variety of conservation uses.
“Planting trees and shrubs is perhaps the most effective way for individuals to help keep our environment clean and green,” said District Director Kelly Emerick. “In addition to providing shade, privacy, wildlife habitat, borders, windbreaks and snow fences, trees provide many environmental benefits not visible to the eye. They work as filters to help protect drinking water, clean the air of pollutants, stabilize soil to prevent erosion, and reduce noise by acting as sound barriers. Trees can help cool your home in the summer, and break cold winds in the winter, helping to reduce energy use. They can even add value to your property,” Emerick said.
The Conservation Tree and Shrub Program is a pre-order program with a deadline for ordering of March 10, 2015. The distribution of the plant material will occur at the Monroe County ecopark on April 23 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The remaining plant stock will be sold on April 25 from 9 a.m. to noon.
Those interested in the Conservation Tree and Shrub Program can find the order form and a full color catalog on the District’s website: www.monroecountyswcd.org or pick up an order form at town/village clerk’s offices within Monroe County. Contact the County Soil and Water Conservation District at (585)-753-7380, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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