Events and Activities : Learn About Tree Care & Help Your Community Grow Its Canopy!

Register for TreeKeepers Classes Now

Nature lovers are needed to help maintain and plant trees throughout Iowa and Illinois. Volunteers can sign up now for virtual training through Trees Forever's TreeKeepers classes by visiting TreesForever.org/TreeKeepers. The course is designed for people who want to become more knowledgeable about urban tree planting and care and will empower attendees to become effective environmental volunteers. The next class series will be held Tuesday evenings in March. This three-class series is on March 15, 22, and 29 from 6 - 8 p.m. An in-person field day will also be held for attendees in metro areas at a time and final location to be determined.

"Trees help our communities in so many ways-from cleaning our air, soil and water to providing beauty and a sense of home," said Molly Walkner, Trees Forever Field Coordinator. "When you take care of a tree, you're also taking care of your community, and TreeKeepers gives you the knowledge and opportunity to do just that!"

After taking the course, TreeKeepers graduates instruct others on planting and tree care at a variety of volunteer events. Hundreds of TreeKeepers have been trained since the classes first began in 2012.

Forrest Kramer has volunteered with Trees Forever for three decades, but still has gained a wealth of knowledge from joining TreeKeepers. "I'm still continuing to learn more. In no way am I close to knowing everything I wish I knew about trees and nature, but continuing to learn is an important part of appreciating the environment!" Kramer said. "This is my community of people with similar interests as me. It's the grouping of people willing to learn and do something about promoting and planting trees."

Registration is $15 and includes exclusive access to official TreeKeeper educational materials. Preregistration is required by March 14. Register at http://www.treesforever.org/TreeKeepers.

For questions, please contact Molly Walkner by phone at 319-440-7756 or e-mail at mwalkner@treesforever.org.