Commission readies spring plantings and Arbor Day activities; 700 seedlings ordered

Commissioners discussed logistics for spring plantings, Rotary Day of Service and Arbor Day/Earth Day outreach and confirmed that 700 seedlings have been ordered.

Barbara Deflin of the North Hampton Rotary suggested April 18–19 for a community planting day. Staff noted that plantings on school property require approvals that typically begin with the school department contact (Tony Cousinieros) and then the building principal. For trench-permit and DigSafe requirements the commission said they will provide either a simple overview map or on-site photographs to document planting locations; volunteers can place stakes and take photos but staff supervision is needed for staking accuracy.

Staff provided a species list for the ordered seedlings — concolor fir, tulip poplar, redbud, red maple, river birch, lilac and white oak — and asked a commissioner to draft a press release; the chair said the mayor’s office will review it and may add a quote. Commissioners also discussed planting a small number of larger trees during Arbor Day events if volunteer capacity and supervision are available.

Members agreed to finalize site maps and DigSafe photo evidence in the weeks before planting, and to coordinate volunteer rosters and material staging (stakes, paint, hammers) prior to activity dates.