Rhode Island's Green Spaces Celebrated At State House

Rhode Island state lawmakers gathered with members of the Newport Tree Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy and other state and town officials to celebrate Arbor Day and raise awareness about the importance of preserving Rhode Island's green spaces. Senator Dawn Euer (D-Dist. 13, Newport, Jamestown) and Representative Lauren Carson (D-Dist. 75, Newport) hosted the event at the State House on Thursday.

"Rhode Island’s trees and woodlands are key contributors to mitigating climate change," Sen. Euer said. "Trees are a natural resource that fundamentally enhance the ecological, social, and economic value of our communities."

Speakers at the event talked about the role of trees in environmental and human health, as well as efforts by state lawmakers to preserve our state's green spaces and woodlands. The Woodland Stewardship and Preservation Act, sponsored by Sen. Bridget G. Valverde (D-Dist. 35, North Kingstown, East Greenwich, Narragansett, South Kingstown), identifies Rhode Island's woodlands and lays out a plan to protect them.

"An early provider of shelter, medicine and tools, trees remain an integral resource to modern life. Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, helping with water conservation and soil preservation, and supporting wildlife and biodiversity," Rep. Carson said.

12 out of Rhode Island's 39 cities and towns have been recognized as "Tree Cities" by the Arbor Day Foundation for their commitment to plant trees in urban areas and ensure existing trees are well taken care of, including Newport and Jamestown.

"Arbor Day reminds us how important trees and forested landscapes are to the beauty, health and resiliency of Rhode Island. Audubon thanks Senator Valverde for introducing the Woodland Preservation and Stewardship Act of 2019 and we look forward to working with her to help get the bill passed this session," said Meg Kerr, Senior Director of Policy for the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.