Environmental Group Scouting Locations For Mahwah Tree Plantings

MAHWAH, N.J. - Mahwah is going to get a lot greener soon.

The Mahwah Environmental Volunteers Organization (MEVO) has begun scouting locations to plant 1,000 trees throughout the township to remember "Trees" author Joyce Kilmer. The famous poet composed the well-known poem while living in Mahwah. He died during World War I.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between MEVO, The Joyce Kilmer Society of Mahwah, Mayor Wiliam Laforet, the Township Council, and the township Beautification Committee.

"We are excited to carry out the initative in Mahwah and we believe that this will serve as a model for future plantings across the state," said Eric Luchs-Stengle, MEVO's coordinator.

Related: 1,000 Trees May Be Planted In Mahwah

One possible location is a grassy median island on MacArthur Boulevard from Ridge Road to Darlington Avenue. The township Department of Public Works will water the trees once they are planted.

"In an era of global environmental problems, and growing population, the natural environment needs your support and love more than ever in order to remain healthy and balanced," said Fuchs-Stengle.

The first planting had been scheduled for next month, but was cancelled. Plantings will be done throughout the year.

Anyone interested in helping should e-mail volunteers@mevoearth.org or call 201-316-4888.

Hannah Wolfe, left, a MEVO volunteer and farmer, and Allie Grinkevich, MEVO administrative assistant, check out a potential planting site on MacArthur Boulevard./Courtesy of MEVO