Tree planting increases green canopy in Eastpointe’s Roxana Park

Local volunteers today planted 20 trees as part of a public space improvement project in Eastpointe. The planting was made possible through the support of Second Nature Brands. The company’s employees also volunteered to plant alongside several other local volunteers.

“Second Nature Brands is proud to partner with Macomb County to support the growth of our local tree canopy,” said Vic Mehren, CEO of Second Nature Brands. “Macomb County is home to our Sanders manufacturing facility, and many of our employees and their families live here. Planting trees in Eastpointe’s Roxana Park reflects our commitment to making things better, by investing in nature and in the communities where we live and work, creating spaces for everyone to enjoy now and in the future.”

Trees were planted in Eastpointe’s Roxana Park. The addition of green canopy within that space will improve the area in a number of ways. 

"We really appreciate everything everyone is doing to help,” said Gary Sasek, chairman of the Eastpointe Parks Commission. “These two projects [at Roxana Park] were done in the last two years. It was done using CDBG grant money. We really appreciate everyone coming out. From 1981 till 2018 it was just a slide, it's a huge upgrade."

The event was led by Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED), which has hosted several plantings this season through its Green Macomb initiative. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the program aims to double tree canopy in Macomb County.

“For 10 years Macomb County has been leading the way when it comes to increasing tree canopy in our 27 municipalities, and especially in our more urban areas,” said Gerard Santoro, program director for parks and natural resources, MCPED. “But we know there’s more work to be done and we’re grateful for the support of countless partners who are helping us make a difference in the lives of our residents.”

Currently Macomb’s tree cover is 26 percent, which falls short of the USDA recommendation of a 40 percent cover or better in urban areas. However, along with residents increasing tree plantings on their properties, promotion and education will help the county reach that goal. Additionally, trees planted at the Eastpointe event will help Second Nature Brands meet its goal of planting one million trees over the next five years.

More information on green canopy in Macomb County can be found on the Green Macomb website and pictures from the planting are available here.