The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light and Mosby Memorial Baptist Church gave away 200 native trees and shrubs to Richmond residents last Saturday.

“Fall was the ideal time of year to plant new trees,” said Ann Jurczyk, CBF Virginia manager of urban restoration.

“These native species provided vital habitat for birds and pollinators, while also cleaning the air we breathe. Planting a well-placed tree could even save money on heating and cooling bills.”

Residents could choose from a variety of native trees and shrubs suited for the Richmond area. Species available included redbud, dogwood, serviceberry, inkberry and buttonbush.

“Many of us knew all the many health and ecological benefits of trees,” said Faith Harris, executive director of Interfaith Power & Light. “However, most did not know that trees played a significant role in many of our religious traditions. In the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and the Koran, trees provided a metaphor for wisdom, strength, perseverance, and good or godly character.”

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz visited the church during the event.

“Meeting with community organizations and residents is crucial for us to address environmental justice challenges in communities that are most affected,” Ortiz said.

Ortiz also met with Groundwork RVA and the City of Richmond’s Office of Sustainability to visit a few local environmental projects, including Hillside Farm, a grassroots project focused on urban agriculture and sustainability in underserved communities.