Projects and Programs

NeighborWoods

NeighborWoods is a partnership between the Tree Conservancy, the City’s Tree Committee, the Texas Forest Service, local neighborhood associations and others.

Through NeighborWoods we provide 15-gallon trees for planting in the city right-of-way by volunteer crews. Local homeowners select the species they want and agree to care for the tree for two years.

Participating partners include Texas A&M University at Galveston and the Galveston County Master Gardeners, and other community and corporate organizations.

The Great Galveston Tree Giveaway

Donated 5-gallon trees are given away by volunteers to Island Residents on a designated Saturday in Fall and again in the Spring if feasible.

Trees are destined for planting on private property and residents sign a pledge to care for the tree for two years.

Typically, we give away hundreds to thousands of trees per year. We also offer 5 gallon fruit trees for adoption with a donation to the Conservancy at some of our Giveaways.

Major Roads & Boulevards

Many of the Island’s largest trees that lined Galveston majestic boulevards were lost in the storm.

Thus far, the Conservancy in coordination with the City of Galveston, Texas Historical Commission, TX DoT and philanthropic organizations and individuals has replanted fifty-four blocks of Historic Broadway Esplanades as well Rosenberg Avenue from Harborside Drive to Seawall Boulevard.

Replanting on Historic Broadway Right-of-Ways is ongoing on a project-by-project basis.

The replanting of major thoroughfares is a big challenge. To address this issue we continue to work with a consortium of government agencies, donors, and concerned citizens.

Parks & Cemeteries

Galveston’s parks and cemeteries were hard hit by Ike leaving them bereft of shady canopy for peaceful reflection, play areas, and family outings.

As of 2020, thirteen parks have been replanted and plans are being drawn up to the restoration of all remaining and new parks and many of the island’s historic cemeteries.

Schools

Reforesting Galveston’s schools is a priority for the Conservancy. We’ve partnered with GISD, the City of Galveston and other entities to reforest school playgrounds/parks and right-of-ways.

We also partner with Island educators to teach students about the importance of trees to the environment and day-to-day life.

Public Buildings

Trees add greatly to the appearance of our public buildings and are an important indicator of a community’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens.

The Conservancy has worked closely with City officials to plant trees in and around public buildings. One of our first projects, for example, included the planting of large Live Oaks planted at City Hall and the Headquarters of the City Fire Service.