July 7, 2005 - Environmental Resources Division Presents the Adopt-A-Tree Program

The devastation that occurred on the Treasure Coast as a result of Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne left many communities and neighborhoods virtually treeless. After the hurricanes, St. Lucie County began developing a strategy to assist citizens in an effort to restructure and replant the "urban forest." Last January, the County's Environmental Resources Division began the Adopt-a-Tree 2005 Program, and to date, has given away approximately 150 trees. For the "cost" of providing water for the tree and a lifetime of "TLC," St. Lucie County homeowners are eligible for one free tree, while supplies last, from the program. Applications for the program are available online at http://www.co.st-lucie.fl.us/erd/ and the completed application must be mailed to St. Lucie County Environmental Resources Division, 6120 Glades Cutoff Rd., Fort Pierce, FL 34981. Staff members from the Environmental Resources Division will schedule a time for pick up of the tree. Homeowners must have a truck or trailer available to pick up the tree, as the trees are large. If homeowners are disabled or elderly, County staff members may be available to help deliver and plant trees. Proof of St. Lucie County residence and a photo ID must be presented. Upon receipt of the tree, homeowners will be provided with instructions on how to plant and care for the tree. For more information, contact Amy Mott, Environmental Regulations Supervisor, at (772) 462-2531.