Volunteers needed for Jones County derecho recovery tree and shrub planting projects

The Jones County Conservation Department is looking for interested volunteers to assist with upcoming Derecho Recovery Tree and Shrub Planting days at Central Park and the Grant Wood Trail in Martelle. Jones County Conservation received a 2021 Derecho Community Forestry Grant to purchase native trees to replace those lost during the 2020 Iowa August derecho event.

Central Park’s tree and shrub planting day will be Thursday. Volunteers can meet at the Jones County Central Park Maintenance Shop, near the park entrance, at 10 a.m. Wear clothing that can get dirty and bring your own pair of work gloves. All other equipment will be provided. After introductions, project orientation, and general tree and shrub planting instructions, volunteers will help place trees and shrubs into pre-dug holes, cover planted trees and shrubs with soil and mulch, and water plantings.

A planting day for Martelle’s Grant Wood Trail Section is scheduled for Oct. 6 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Please contact Michele at (319) 481-7987 or email naturalist@jonescountyiowa.gov for more information, or visit the Jones County Conservation Department website at https://www.jonescountyiowa.gov/conservation/