Gowanus Canal Conservancy Host Tree Giveaway and Spring Cleaning

Celebrate the recent sunny skies and blooming flowers by spreading some green throughout Gowanus this weekend. The will be giving away 100 trees as part of the MillionTreesNYC and New York Restoration Project, as well as hosting a cleanup party.

"People should get there as early as they possibly can," said Hans Hesselein, director of special projects for the GCC. "We will be giving away 100 trees beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Salt Lot at 2 Second Ave and interested people have already reserved 70 of them."

Hesselein did acknowledge, however, that some people probably won’t show up. So those who have not reserved a tree in advance can try their luck at grabbing one on the spot.

"Some of the species we'll be giving away are Magnolias and Hawthornes," Hesselein said, adding, "Trees provide many environmental benefits such as shade and beautification, and lowering urban temperatures as well as many other economic benefits we think trees can bring to Gowanus watershed."

If you're not in it for the free trees and would prefer to lend a hand, cleanup activities will include building a compost sifting table, removing trash and debris from the Salt Lot and the 2nd Avenue rain garden, weeding, creating a new berm garden, and other various tasks.

"All of our events are focused on environmental stewardship," said Hesselein. "And we always try to incorporate some kind of ativity or program at all of our events. For example, in April we’re going to be doing some street tree maintenance, taking around volunteers and teaching them about urban tree care." The GCC will also be conducting a workshop with wildflower seeding and spreading seed around the abandoned spaces around the canal.

To participate in tomorrow's cleanup, arrive at Salt Lot / 2 Second Ave. The tree giveaway and cleanup will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information on future events, visit the Gowanus Canal Conservacy site.