The Catskill Chronicle

LIBERTY, NY (September 2, 2013) – Volunteers wishing to improve their communities and parks by caring for trees have an opportunity to receive a structured, two-day training and camaraderie among other like-minded adults. By popular demand, a unique, 10-hour Community Tree Steward course is offered for only $25 by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County on Tuesday, September 17, and Wednesday, September 18. Each class will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty. Thirty-two trained Community Tree Stewards have already successfully completed this program and are active in Sullivan County.

The Community Tree Steward program is a volunteer service-based program through CCE with experts in the field offering training in tree biology, identification, planting, and maintenance for young trees. The two-part course includes in-class and field training. The trained volunteers will be expected to donate 10 hours of stewardship back to the community on selected projects, where they will continue receiving hands-on and technical experience in tree management.

A special tree-care guide book and light refreshments will be included with the program. Participants should provide their own lunch. Space is limited so pre-registration with payment is required in advance. Refunds will not be issued. Reservations can be obtained by calling 845-292-6180.

Questions can be directed to Susan Dollard, Master Gardener Program Coordinator and Community Educator by email at smd243@cornell.edu.