NOLA Tree Project Distributes Free Trees During Community Day to Replace Those Lost from Hurricane Ida

JEAN LAFITTE, La. (March 12, 2022) – The distribution of 500 free trees sparked today’s Community Day in response to Hurricane Ida’s devastation with the support of the NOLA Tree Project and the Arbor Day Foundation. Residents of Barataria, Crown Point, Jean Lafitte and Lafitte gathered to receive free trees, services, non-perishable groceries and home items. 

The Category 4 storm made landfall on Aug. 29, 2021, exactly 16 years after Hurricane Katrina, bringing 10 to 15 feet of surging water, 150 mph winds and up to four feet of mud from the protective marsh lands. To help restore the tree population, NOLA Tree Project will distribute 24 different species of trees native to the Louisiana area. 

“Trees are a vibrant step toward recovery for communities, and their environmental impact over time is inspiring,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “We are pleased to partner with NOLA Tree Project who continues to prioritize its tree canopy to help replant a healthier and stronger planet for years to come.”  

The mission of NOLA Tree Project over the past 15 years is to grow stronger, healthier communities through tree plantings and community service projects. The nonprofit organization has planted and provided more than 65,000 trees in public green spaces and to the residents of New Orleans in response to 100, 000 trees that the city lost to Hurricane Katrina. NOLA Tree Project harnesses the power of volunteers to transform lives and communities through disaster response, community service and environmental projects.  

“Recovery from a disaster such as Ida is a costly, trying process so spending money on trees or landscaping is out of the question for many who are trying to get a roof over their head,” said Connie Uddo, director of NOLA Tree Project. “By giving trees to residents, with the support of the Arbor Day Foundation, to shade their homes, reduce flooding and beautify their properties lifts their spirits and gives them hope.” 

The Community Tree Recovery program was created by the Arbor Day Foundation in 2005 out of the demand for trees in the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina. There is a need for trees, for the environment and the people, especially in hurricane-prone regions. Trees have evolved to weather storms, minimize storm surges and protect property. Their roots suck water 200 feet under the ground and keep soil intact to prevent erosion which is essential in areas like the Louisiana coastline. 

Community Tree Recovery distributions are made possible through private and corporate donations to improve and recover entire communities through trees. Verizon was the main contributor behind the 500 trees distributed.  

To learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation and its Community Tree Recovery program, visit arborday.org. 

About the Arbor Day Foundation 

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has grown to become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, with more than one million members, supporters and valued partners. Since 1972, almost 500 million Arbor Day Foundation trees have been planted in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to lead toward a world where trees are used to solve issues critical to survival.?

As one of the world's largest operating conservation foundations, the Arbor Day Foundation, through its members, partners and programs, educates and engages stakeholders and communities across the globe to involve themselves in its mission of planting, nurturing and celebrating trees. More information is available at arborday.org.