The Newport Tree Conservancy is calling on community volunteers to help plant 100 native trees in Miantonomi Park during a two-day event later this month.
The volunteer planting initiative will take place Oct. 24-25 from noon to 2 p.m. each day as part of an ongoing effort to restore Newport’s largest forested area, which faces mounting pressure from invasive species.
Approximately 80% of Miantonomi Park’s mature forest is now covered by invasive understory species, according to the conservancy. Aggressive invaders including English oak, Japanese knotweed and bittersweet are rapidly overtaking the landscape, crowding out native species and disrupting the ecological balance.
The Newport Tree Conservancy has worked for seven years alongside the Newport Public Services Department and community volunteers to combat invasive plants through targeted mowing and removal efforts.
With aging native trees in decline and non-native species failing, the conservancy is moving forward with a reforestation project focused on the central eastern and northern portions of the park. The organization has secured funding for the initiative.
Between 2019 and 2024, the conservancy successfully planted more than 500 native trees, including red maple, tamarack and yellow birch. The plantings are critical to restoring biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of the park’s ecosystem, according to the organization.
Volunteers interested in participating can register at newporttreeconservancy.org/events or contact volunteer@newporttreeconservancy.org with questions.
