Morrisville’s Northwest Park will be “spruced” up with about 50 new trees later this year, courtesy of a grant from the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources’ Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program. The project was picked from 24 other proposals this year.  The Morrisville Public Works Department will use the $3,000 grant funds to purchase Red Maple, Eastern Redbud, Kousa Dogwood, Willow Oak, Sawtooth Oak, Bald Cypress, and Southern Magnolia trees.

North West Park is a 5 acre area located off Parkside Valley Drive in the Breckenridge Subdivision.  The Town is planning to develop the park in the future, but the final design is yet to be established. In the interim period, the Public Works Parks Division is taking the opportunity to add trees along the slopes of the park that will not interfere with the future design.  The grant funds will provide an opportunity for Morrisville to get trees established at the site to enhance the area for use by nearby residents.   The new trees will provide color, shade, aesthetic appeal, and act as a conservation agent to hold the soil. 

Part of the grant requirement was to identify a public education component regarding tree planting.  The Town will involve community volunteers in a Tree Planting event at the park, teaching proper planting techniques, mulch application, and long-term care. 

“By having this event and incorporating the demonstration for proper tree planting and proper mulch application, we believe we will foster a greater interest and enthusiasm for participants to plant trees in their own yards as well as becoming more active in tree planting and care in the town,” stated Morrisville Parks & Grounds Technician Stan Whitlow, who sought out the grant. 

The project has garnered widespread community support with commitments for help and support from the Morrisville Community Appearance Committee, Environmental and Recycling Committee, Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, and the Breckenridge organization.

The tree planting event is scheduled tentatively for November.  Volunteers wishing to get involved with this initiative can contact the Morrisville Public Works Department at 919.463.7070.