On a cold, wet, and rainy morning last weekend in the Eastmond hills of Oakland, CA, a group of dedicated volunteers braved the elements to make a difference.
Oakland gets its name from the oak forests that once covered a large part of the area. Today, most of the native oaks are gone and have been replaced with many other tree species such as eucalyptus, Monterey Pine and redwoods. Currently, only 31% of the existing trees are species native to Oakland.
This project worked to bring back a piece of Oakland’s natural heritage and the rich history intertwined with these majestic giants. It was also a neighborhood dream to beautify the entrance of the open space, add shade for visitors, and replace the invasive trees that the city has been working to eradicate.
The day of planting wasn’t easy, but the A Plus Tree team made the daunting task much easier by arriving early to pre-dig holes and stage trees in their proper locations.
Despite the weather, 15 volunteers still showed up, including members of the Oak Knoll Neighborhood Improvement Association’s (OKNIA) Board of Directors, Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation volunteers, and neighborhood supporters. The energy that day was infectious, making the work feel like a joyous collaboration.
We planted 25 native oaks of 4 different species: Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Valley Oak (Quercus lobata), Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizeni) and Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii). Soon enough, the new oak grove will thrive, providing habitat for local wildlife and a peaceful sanctuary for the community.
To everyone involved, whether you planted a tree, wielded a shovel, or simply cheered us on from afar – thank you! Together, in just one morning, we transformed a once barren space into a future flourishing oak grove along 82nd Avenue.
Happy Earth Day, everyone! Let’s keep planting the seeds of change.
THANK YOU to Sonoma Ecology Center: A Plus Tree’s partner on the CalFIRE grant and support in executing this workshop.
