500 Free Trees Distributed to Replant Land Lost In Fires
Trees provided to residents of Whitman County impacted by 2020 fires
500 trees were distributed to residents that were impacted by the Babb Road Fire last year in an effort to replant lost trees. 250 Red Oaks and 250 Ponderosa Pines were available.
The trees were distributed at the temporary library and food bank in the city park on Wednesday, May 5th.
The Pine Creek Community Restoration Long Term Recovery Organization hosted the give away. The trees were donated by Bartlett Tree Experts with organizational support from the Urban Forest Citizen Advisory Committee and The Lands Council.
The goal is to rebuild the best community possible in the wake of the 2020 Whitman County fires. The fire destroyed 17,700 acres, approximately 121 homes where impacted and 350 impacted people. Just in Malden alone, 80 percent of the homes and structures have been destroyed.
The impact and damage are still affecting residents who lost their homes. “We are healing.” Rachel Blakeley said. “Even though the fire was 7 months ago, it destroyed everything, and the pain is still very real. These trees are a sign of hope, with spring and the new growth. We are so grateful for the generosity and support getting these trees out, these trees will help us to rebuild, regrow and recover.”
Malden still needs support of our region! You can help by volunteering your time by contacting Doug at doug_arlt@selinc.com, or making a donation through United Way. Visit www.pinecreekcommunityrestoration.org for more information.
