The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today kicked off a week of celebration of the 10^th anniversary of Trees for Tributaries, or “Tribs,” by planting the program’s 100,000^th tree at the Normanskill Farm in the city of Albany. A tamarack was planted at the farm to highlight this milestone.

“This tree symbolizes the efforts of thousands of volunteers across New York State who have planted trees and shrubs along streams over the last decade to improve our wildlife habitat and water quality for future generations,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Trees for Tribs plays a key role in our efforts to improve and protect water quality and climate resiliency in New York State.”

During 2016, Trees for Tribs planted nearly 30,000 native trees and shrubs along streams, engaging thousands of volunteers in tree planting activities. Trees along streams prevent erosion, increase flood water retention, improve wildlife and in-stream habitat, and protect water quality.

State Senator Tom O'Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats), Chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, said, "Thank you to all of the thousands of volunteers throughout the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions I represent, and across New York State, for participating in this critical effort to protect wildlife and improve the quality of our waterways."

State Senator Neil Breslin (D –Albany), said, “The 100,000th tree being planted at the Normanskill Farm here in Albany as part of the 'Trees for Tributaries' program demonstrates New York State's ongoing commitment to improving both our natural habitat and water quality for generations to come.  I applaud Governor Cuomo, Commissioner Seggos and the countless volunteers who have made this program such a resounding success.”

“Today’s Trees for Tribs milestone reminds us to celebrate trees as a critical way to counter the effects of erosion and do our part to create a healthy environment and improve water quality. New York State has benefited greatly from Trees for Tribs and the Department of Environmental Conservation’s commitment to creating habitats for wildlife and educating the public on New York’s forests. Care and preservation of our trees and waterways is a top priority as we invest in our environmental future,” said State Assemblymember Patricia Fahy.

“I want to commend DEC for this wide-ranging effort to beautify and protect the environment and for engaging volunteers to assist in this worthy program,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Working together we can improve our environment, one tree at a time.”    

In addition, Trees for Tribs is hosting their Third Annual Pot Up event at the Saratoga Tree Nursery on Friday, May 19. Volunteers will plant native trees and shrubs in pots for planting this fall along streams across New York. This year’s program partner, Trout Unlimited (TU) will plant 5,000 trees through the Trees for Tribs program and in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation to improve stream habitat for trout. This year’s Pot Up event will support Trout Unlimited’s fall tree planting activities. 

Last year, 57 volunteers attended this event and potted more than 4,000 plants for the program, making it the most successful event yet. Volunteers interested in participating in 2017 are encouraged to bring garden gloves and dress appropriately for the weather. Plants potted at this year’s event will support Trees for Tribs partners. TU is a national non-profit organization dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds.

“We are excited to be partnering with Trees for Tribs on this great event to share in the mission of creating better habitat for wildlife,” said Tracy Brown, TU’s Northeastern Restoration Coordinator. “Volunteers participating in this event will help improve streams across the state, creating a landscape scale impact for trout and water quality.”

To learn more about Trees for Tribs, partner organizations and how to get involved, visit the DEC website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/77710.html.