Most of us are very aware of the tree loss experienced during hurricane Rita. The ReTree LC program was developed to help deal with that loss. Toward that effort and for the 2nd year in a row, Lake Charles was the recipient of trees as a result of the Apache Foundation Tree Grant Program.
This year, the City of Lake Charles received 600 trees, all awarded thanks to the Apache Foundation. As stated on the page dedicated to this initiatve on the city's website, "Planting trees improves the air quality of the environment, provides essential habitat, and enhances neighborhoods."
As a result of this 2013 initiative, Margaret Place was given 30 Crepe Myrtyle and 10 River Birch Trees. In addition to the 10 m/l trees that will be planted at the Pithon Gardens, several of our neighbors responded to the offer of these complimentary trees.
- ICCS (along Wilson)
- Elizabeth and Darren Martel (to help detract from a power pole on Wilson)
- Kay Noble (Grove)
- JoEllen Lee (Park Avenue to replace damaged and diseased trees between her home and the Brulet Apartments.)
- Angie and Troy Stine (Pithon)
- Monte Hurley (Wilson)
- MK Hopkins (enhance DeBakey Drive)
We are reserving 2 of the River Birches as they may be needed to replace 2 of the Willows at Perkin's Point.
A few Crepe Myrtles and River Birches remain so call or e-mail MK Hopkins if you are interested. The trees are free, with only two olbigations:
- Keep the trees watered before and after planting
- Send a photograph of the trees being planted to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so they can be entered on our photo page and sent to the city for their website. In turn, the city may forward the photos to the Apache Corporation along with our thanks.
As always, an effort such as this takes the efforts of many. Kudos to:
Donny Pitzer for taking the time to plant the trees along Wilson and for loaning an extender hose for the watering on Wilson- Elizabeth and Darren Martel for putting up with excess water hoses until the trees are established and for allowing us the use of their water.
- David Bordelon for sharing his creative watering technique, for loaning one of his "bucket inventions" and for taking the time to create another one for MPHD use.
- Ken Fletcher for donating his time and equipment to pick up and deliver the trees
Special thanks to Clair Forbers, Senior PLanner with the City, for her invaluable assistance with the ReTree LC program as well as helping us to improve our landscapes.
Read more about the Apache Grant program and learn more about this year's ReTree LC effort on the city's website.