(Plain Press February 2025) Saturday, January 18^th, the Tree Stewards of Old Brooklyn had the first “Tree Workshop-Program” of 2025 at Six Shooter Coffee shop. Hope Fiero introduced professional arborist Amanda Woods Urban Community Forester, Holden Arboretum; Brittney Hooper, Old Brooklyn Community Development’s Tree Steward Coordinator; and Phil Kidd, Mayors Office of Capital Improvements. Old Brooklyn residents arrived throughout the morning. Some long-time residents, others new homeowners. All enjoyed a hot beverage while learning about the world of trees.

     Amanda Wood explained the importance of trees. She explained how they provide oxygen, improve air quality, support wildlife, help regulate the climate, reduce flooding, and improve water quality. Trees Even help reduce air condition bills by offering shade. The importance of Oak trees for wildlife including pollinators was discussed. The Oak tree is home to up to 400 types of pollinators and insects.

     Amanda gave statistics on tree canopy coverage in Cuyahoga County and Old Brooklyn. How a 2019 report by the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission indicated a loss of 6,600 acres of Cuyahoga County tree canopy occurring from 2013 to 2017. The impacts of this loss, often caused by development, neglect, damage, and invasive pests, are far reaching. The City of Cleveland has a canopy goal of 30% by 2040, with current total coverage being 18%.  The entire area of Old Brooklyn now stands at 21.1%. 

     Hope explained how Old Brooklyn’s Reforestation and Free Tree Program works. You start by filling out a planting pledge. It asks that the property belongs to you, you will provide watering for the tree for the first three years, and that before it is planted you will verify there is no utility line underground (call 811). A tree steward will be sent to discuss possible trees and proper location for the tree to be planted. The location will be staked for the arborists to come out and plant, mulch, stake and deer guard it.

     Among the trees offered this Spring will be the American horn bean, dogwood, little leaf linden,  Persian iron wood, swamp white oak and London plane tree. Trees will be planted, staked and deer fence protected. Also, the Green Vase Zelvova, an alternative to the American Elm, with oblong, dark green leaves in the spring and summer is an option. This vase shaped tree brings spectacular color and visual interest for months at a time. The Zelcova’s autumn show will impress with a variety of colors from rusted orange, to bronze, and even pale yellow.

     The difference in the program this year is that they will be reaching out to businesses, churches, non-profits engaging them in our reforestation program.

     Phil Kidd, Mayor’s office of Capital Improvement talked about “depaving” in Cleveland. It is cutting back the full-size sidewalks that go from buildings to street and then putting in a green space with trees. This summer Broadview Road is scheduled to be home to a depaving project.

     This year we are offering handmade ornaments, refrigerator magnets, and business card holders made by tree stewards. Some are wood burned images of trees or leaves. Others are made from the bark of a 180 year white oak with lichen encrusted on maple branches.

     Thanks to all who came. We enjoyed the time with you. For more information on the free tree program contact Brittney at TreeSteward@oldbrooklyn.com or 216-505-1686.