Saplings will be Available at all Nine County Branch Libraries Starting on Earth Day
Schenectady County will give away 1,200 free saplings to residents in celebration of Arbor Day. These saplings will be available at all nine Schenectady County Public Library branches from Monday, April 22, 2024 (Earth Day), through Friday, April 26, 2024 (Arbor Day), during regular library hours, or until supplies run out.
“As we get ready to celebrate Arbor Day, we’re excited to provide free saplings to our community at convenient locations across the County,” said County Legislator Sara Mae Pratt, Chair of the Committee on Environmental Conservation, Renewable Energy and Parks. “Trees play a vital role in preserving our environment by enhancing air and water quality, preventing erosion, and even combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Together we can plant the seeds of a healthier planet.”
Three species of trees will be distributed – Eastern Redbud, White Flowering Dogwood, and Serviceberry. The bareroot trees will be approximately 6-18 inches tall and will reach a mature height of 20-25 feet tall. The saplings were selected by the Schenectady County Conservation District and will be distributed in groups of two that will also include a planting guide.
Schenectady County Public Library is hosting two programs in conjunction with the sapling giveaway. During the events, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schenectady County’s Master Gardner volunteers will be available to answer questions about planting and caring for the saplings:
Date: Monday, April 22, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Hon. Karen B. Johnson (Central) Library located at 99 Clinton Street in Schenectady
Date: Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Glenville Branch Library located at 20 Glenridge Road in Glenville
Learn more about the Master Gardner volunteer program at https://schenectady.cce.cornell.edu/gardening/master-gardener-volunteers.
Schenectady County Conservation District
The Schenectady County Conservation District provides environmental services and technical assistance for County residents. Services include conservation technical assistance, conservation education, information regarding soils, composting, parks and preserves, wildlife habitat, forestry, land reclamation, Erosion & Sediment Control Plan review, engineering assistance, grant application assistance, planning assistance, and agricultural assessment services. Learn more at https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/conservation-district.
Schenectady County Public Library (SCPL)
SCPL is operated by Schenectady County and is made up of nine branch libraries located throughout the county. More information about SCPL, including locations and hours of operation, is available at www.scpl.org.