Volunteers Needed for Tree Planting at Lincoln National Forest’s Trestle Recreation Area

Help Replenish Forest Lost to Dwarf Mistletoe and Contribute to Reforestation Efforts on October 5, 2024.

The Lincoln National Forest will host a free public tree planting event at the Trestle Recreation Area on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A mandatory training brief for volunteers will take place from 9-10 a.m.

Participants will work to enhance species diversity and monitor resilience to white pine blister rust by planting southwestern white pine seedlings. This reforestation project is a collaboration between the Forest Service and Northern Arizona University.

"Our goal is to engage the community and showcase the vital work we do here on the forest," said Haley Ritger, Natural Resource Officer for the Lincoln National Forest.

"Following this year's devastating wildfires, planting trees can help us reconnect with the landscape."

Smokey Bear and the Lincoln National Forest Prevention Team will also be on-hand to share important information about fire safety and wildfire prevention and greet volunteers and visitors. There will also be several educational displays.

In 2021, the Sacramento Ranger District began removing trees affected by dwarf mistletoe across 11 acres in the Trestle Trail Recreation Area. This parasitic plant weakens host trees by draining their nutrients and water, significantly impacting ponderosa pine populations in the Lincoln National Forest. Southwestern white pines with genetic resistance to white pine blister rust will be planted instead of ponderosa pine because they are less susceptible to the dwarf mistletoe and will allow for monitoring durability of rust resistance over time.

Volunteers can arrive at the Trestle Recreation Area at 9 a.m. to register prior to participating. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and bring essential items like water, a lunch, sunscreen, and any personal protective gear. Limited gear and tools will be available on-site.