Whitefish area property owners can buy 12- to 18-inch seedlings, consisting of red pine, birch, red oak and serviceberry for 25 cents each through the Whitefish Area Property Owners Association's tree sale.
The association is providing these trees at a significant discount in an effort to protect water quality on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, a news release stated. The association is able to provide the trees at a discounted rate to property owners through WAPOA subsidies and a state cost-sharing opportunity.
It is well documented that lands with good tree cover protect the lakes by slowing down runoff, allowing the water to soak into the ground and reducing lake pollution from chemicals such as roadway salt and oils, the release stated. Trees also slow down runoff containing soil, plant materials, fertilizers and pesticides.
The discounted trees are available in limited quantities at 50 per property owner. The only restriction is that the trees are to be planted on land within the Whitefish Chain area shoreland or in the watershed.
Property owners can also purchase tree protection cages for $12.50 per package of 25 cages. If needed, a site visit and custom planting plan for a site is also available with advance sign-up. Planting assistance can also be provided at discounted rates.
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Orders can be placed now through April 18 while supplies last by contacting J. Laurel at jlaurel@tds.net or 952-217-9429. Inquire about pricing for a custom planting plan and/or planting assistance when placing the order.
Pick up trees from 1-4 p.m., May 13, or 9 a.m. to noon, May 14, at Ideal Town Hall. It is recommended the trees be planted within a few days of pick-up for best growing success.
Forested lands throughout the watershed protect water quality. Therefore, WAPOA plans to sponsor this tree-planting campaign every spring. The association's goal is to do everything possible to protect lakes, the release stated.
Visit www.wapoa.org for more information about WAPOA, the largest lake association in Minnesota.
