A new batch of young trees ready to be planted

Living Arroyos is moving and shaking!  As we continue to renew and enhance streams in the Tri-Valley, we recently began planting the riparian area right next to the stream channel at the Stanley Reach site.  To prepare for planting, staff spend time marking tree sites, augering holes, and string trimming the surrounding areas.  We also transport our young trees from the Watershed Nursery in Richmond, where the plants were locally sourced and grown, to Stanley Reach.

Loic and Nina, two local high school students, work together to plant a tree.

In just four volunteer days, we have planted almost 1,100 baby trees.  These trees include a mix of natives: bigleaf maple, box elder, California walnut, willow, alder, cottonwood, Oregon ash, and buckeye.  As adults, these species will shade the stream, lowering water temperatures while providing habitat for fish, birds, and other creatures.  Humans will enjoy the shady recreation area as well.

CK Singh, an LA apprentice, demonstrates planting to young volunteers.

Luckily, we have had our amazing volunteers to help with the huge planting effort.  In fact, more than 400 community members have volunteered their time for a total of 1,337 hours over the course of the first Living Arroyos program year!  That’s an incredible demonstration of the Tri-Valley community’s investment in the nature right in their backyard.