ROCKPORT — Rockport’s Tree Planting Program is now accepting applications from homeowners, businesses and organizations in the town of Rockport. The program, now in its third year, is a collaboration between the Town of Rockport, Rockport Garden Club and Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) to enhance the town through the planting of trees.

This year, the program has expanded its original mission of creating new and enhancing existing wooded areas along roadways to include planting trees in other publicly accessible spaces. 

MCHT, a state-wide land conservation organization, brings to the partnership the use of fertile land at Erickson Fields Preserve for the tree nursery. MCHT Farm Manager, Aaron Englander, who manages a Teen Agriculture Crew at Erickson Fields, explains the benefits of the partnership extend beyond cost-savings. 

“I think this collaboration is a great model for how to cost-effectively run a public town tree planting program. It helps build partnerships and strengthen community,” Englander said in a news release. “Another layer of this program that is even more powerful is the involvement of high school students. By helping raise the nursery trees, the teens are learning new skills and engaging with their community. 

Applicants may choose from a variety of trees, including birch, maple and oak. There is no fee to participate. Applications may be picked up at the Rockport Town office during regular hours, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and must be received by 3 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2019.

The public is welcome to visit Erickson Fields Preserve located at 164 West Street in Rockport between sunrise and sunset.