New Trees Coming To Springdale Cemetery And Mausoleum

Press release from the City of Peoria:

September 2, 2020

The tree line and grounds at Springdale Cemetery and Mausoleum could look a bit different come this winter. Representatives from the facility and Peoria Public Works Department are teaming up to determine where and when new saplings could be planted to reignite the grounds’ tree population.

The volunteers and workers met at the cemetery on Friday, August 25, to assess the site. The team identified key sections of the 227-acre burial ground that are suitable for new trees. Based on their review there will be 12 new plantings throughout the grounds with an additional seven around the Savanna and Prairie Gardens. Mark Matuszak who serves as the cemetery’s General Manager says the facility loses as many as 12 to 18 trees per year, which has sparked the desire to bring new growth to the site.

Public Works is working with Hoerr Nursery and volunteers associated with the Peoria Urban Forestry Advisory Board (PUFAB) and Trail Advocates for Central Illinois to fine tune a list of tree species that will complement existing varieties. Planting is planned for late October, weather pending.

About Springdale Cemetery:
The cemetery, founded in 1854, has over six miles of roadways winding through its hills and valleys and is the final resting place for nearly 70,000 people.

This press release was produced by the City of Peoria. The views expressed here are the author’s own.