Calling all nature enthusiasts and those with a green thumb! Minnetonka Natural Resources is teaming up with the University of Minnesota and Hennepin County to offer a unique opportunity for individuals to become volunteer tree stewards. This initiative is aimed at bolstering the city's forest health and sustainability. The training, set for Saturday, May 4, is designed to quickly equip volunteers with the knowledge they need to properly care for trees in the community.
The Tree Steward program is a hands-on way to directly help maintain and improve local parks and green spaces. Volunteers are asked to put in at least 12 hours of service during the year, working sometimes alongside city staff to ensure Minnetonka's trees continue to thrive. According to a statement on the city's website, "Tree stewards support city staff in protecting the long-term health of our community forest."
There's an open invite to the public for this class, and it even includes youth aged 16 and up, with the condition that they have the consent of a parent or guardian. Those worried about not being up to par can rest easy, as no prior experience is necessary to join the ranks of tree stewards. The organizers promise to provide all the tools and safety gear that volunteers might need.
The upcoming training isn't just your typical lecture—it's a mix of classroom education and practical fieldwork. Participants will learn to properly plant, water, and prune, among other essential tree care tasks. Completing a final assessment is the last step for volunteers to officially become tree stewards. And for those concerned about the cost, the $15 fee shouldn't deter anyone, as grants are available to cover this expense. Just be sure to reach out and inquire.
If you're interested, make sure to register soon. The day runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and it includes a complimentary lunch. If dietary restrictions are a worry, the coordinators from Minnetonka Natural Resources want to ensure they accommodate all participants—just notify them ahead of time. For additional details, potential volunteers should contact Diana Preisen directly.
