Steps for Successful Tree Planting Projects

PLANNING

Develop a goal to create a positive environmental change.
Plan in advance.
Learn the history of the site.
Develop a master plan with long & short term goals.
Solicit input from qualified professionals, including arborists and landscape architects, to identify appropriate plant selection and location.
Identify and prepare a detailed schedule for all planning, preparation, planting, and maintenance activities.

LEADERSHIP

Develop a leadership team that includes a cross section of the community and stakeholders, including qualified professionals.
Identify a person in the team with the vision, commitment, organizational and leaderships skills to submit the grant and coordinate activities.

VOLUNTEERS

Ensure adequate volunteer commitment, both short and long term.
Consider the logistics, transportation needs, tools, activities, costs, and a detailed schedule for your project.
Ensure adequate volunteer involvement on planting day.
Train volunteers prior to planting day.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Ensure adequate long and short term commitment from qualified technical experts that include arborists and landscape architects.
Ask for input from qualified professionals or arborists about appropriate plant selection.
Verify that appropriate quality plant material is available and the planting stock is inspected.
Prepare the site – clearing/grubbing, digging holes, delivery of materials, grading, and the irrigation has been installed prior to planting day.

COMMUNITY BUILDING

Inform the community via announcements, newsletters, etc.
Develop a communication / information plan for tracking the project and keeping the community involved.

PLANTING DAY

Prepare volunteer sign-in sheets for volunteers to sign.
Identify volunteer assignments.
Provide technical supervision for all volunteers.
Set up the site with tools and equipment in place.
Provide refreshments.
Clean up the site and return all tools and equipment.

POST PLANTING

Evaluate if the project has created a positive environmental change.
Begin a tree maintenance program—see checklist.
Identify and verify qualified individuals responsible to ensure and conduct maintenance.
Ensure that funds and supplies are available for maintenance.
Develop a check list for a project review after one year, for example, the stakes have been removed, and the irrigation is working.
Submit a one year report on the conditions of the trees to the Kaulunani Council.
Follow-up and ensure compliance with the long term maintenance plan (up to 5 years) that includes checking if the trees are healthy, vigorous and structurally sound, mulch is present, and stakes removed.