Growing a Greener Central Ohio
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
At M.J. Design Associates, we spend a lot of time planting trees. Every landscape we install is an opportunity to create beauty, provide shade, support wildlife, and leave a lasting impact on the environment. But we're not the only ones working to make Central Ohio greener.
Across Columbus and the surrounding communities, several incredible organizations are planting trees, expanding our urban canopy, and helping residents make a difference right in their own neighborhoods. As we continue planting throughout the season, we'd like to shine a spotlight on a few groups helping grow a healthier, greener Central Ohio.
Why Trees Matter
Trees do far more than make a property look beautiful. They provide shade during hot Ohio summers, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, support birds and pollinators, and help create healthier, more enjoyable communities. Columbus and Franklin County have made tree canopy expansion a major priority, recognizing the important role trees play in the future of our growing region.
The good news? There are plenty of opportunities for residents and businesses to get involved.
Green Columbus
One of the area's leading environmental organizations, Green Columbus works year-round to plant trees, organize volunteer events, and distribute free trees to residents. Their mission is simple: bring people together to create a greener, healthier community. The organization has helped plant hundreds of native trees throughout Central Ohio and regularly hosts volunteer planting events.
Whether you're looking to volunteer for a tree planting event or add a tree to your own yard, Green Columbus is a fantastic place to start.
Trees Columbus
Trees Columbus is another local organization dedicated to preserving and expanding our urban forest. Through educational programs, tree walks, volunteer opportunities, and community plantings, they help residents better understand and care for the trees around them.
Franklin Soil & Water Conservation District
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that Franklin Soil & Water offers programs that help increase tree canopy throughout the region. Through partnerships with local agencies, they support tree planting initiatives and provide resources to encourage long-term environmental stewardship.
The Arbor Day Foundation
While not based in Central Ohio, the Arbor Day Foundation has inspired millions of people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. Their programs support tree planting efforts across the country and connect communities with resources to expand green spaces where they are needed most.
Looking Ahead
Planting trees has always been part of who we are.
As we continue helping homeowners create beautiful outdoor spaces, we're also looking for ways to become more involved in community tree planting efforts throughout Central Ohio.
In the months and years ahead, we hope to partner with local organizations, volunteer at planting events, and contribute to projects that help grow a healthier urban canopy for future generations.
If you've ever considered volunteering at a tree planting event, we encourage you to do it. A few hours of your time can leave a positive impact that lasts for decades.
After all, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is today.
Here's to growing a greener Central Ohio together.
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