The Village of Wellington recently announced that it has been awarded two tree-planting grants from the Arbor Day Foundation to aid in the recovery of areas damaged by the Hurricane Milton tornadoes last fall. These grants are made possible through the support of corporate sponsors Bank of America and International Paper.
Through its post-disaster recovery initiative, the Arbor Day Foundation supports communities by funding the planting of trees that help restore landscapes, renew hope and build resilience. With the foundation’s support, Wellington will move forward with significant tree restoration projects in the Binks Forest Drive and Flying Cow Ranch Road corridors — two areas hit hardest by the storm.
A total of 111 trees will be planted — 55 in the Binks Forest Drive area with support from Bank of America, and 56 in the Flying Cow Ranch Road area with support from International Paper. These trees will be selected from high and medium-high wind-resistant species to better withstand future severe weather events and support Wellington’s long-term resilience.
“This funding is a meaningful investment in our community’s continued recovery and long-term resilience,” Village Manager Jim Barnes said. “We are extremely grateful to the Arbor Day Foundation, Bank of America and International Paper for their generous support and commitment to restoring and enhancing Wellington’s natural landscape.” These efforts also align with the village’s broader goal of increasing tree coverage and enhancing the curb appeal of neighborhoods and roadways. The village will coordinate the planting efforts and engage local volunteers to ensure the successful implementation of both projects
