Westport Considers Creating New Tree Planting Program

WESTPORT, CT — At its Thursday meeting, the Westport Tree Board will consider a new program in which residents can choose and buy a tree that the town will plant in the public right-of-way on the resident's property.

The initiative is modeled on a similar tree planting program adopted in Fairfield, in which residents of that town spend $200 to have an official help the resident pick a tree and site along the property line, and for the town to then plant it.

Fairfield will also provide a gator bag for the tree, if it will fit, and deer protection, if needed.

Additionally, there is no limit of how many trees a Fairfield resident can buy for the program, so long as there is appropriate space for them.

"You must mulch the tree annually and water the tree after it is planted and during times of drought," the Fairfield program says. "Remember, regular watering is critical to the success of the newly planted tree!"

Westport's Tree Board meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. on Thursday in Room 201 at Town Hall. Click here to view the agenda.