The City of Naples still needs trees and you can help!
November 30, 2021
Naples is graced with a beautiful and diverse population of trees. More than 20,773 trees of 148 different species grace our parks, public spaces, and City streets. The trees that are planted throughout our community are one feature that makes the City of Naples distinctive and beautiful.
The City of Naples has long been known as the “Green Jewel” of Southwest Florida. The City has received the “Tree City USA” designation by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 23 years! The lush canopy of trees and tropical palms that line Naples’ streets and parks are valued by its residents and enhance our community’s quality of life.
When Hurricane Irma struck Naples in September 2017, nearly 2,000 trees were lost. With increased funding and support from City Council, we have worked to replace many canopy and palm trees, but there are not sufficient funds to replace all that was lost. Some of the benefits of planting trees in Naples are providing shade, cooling the City, cleaning the air, protecting the birds and other wildlife, and increasing property values.
Thanks to the generosity of the Blair Foundation, which was created in memory of long-time Naples residents and philanthropists, John and Dorothy Blair, Naples has an exceptional opportunity to replace more trees. The Blair Foundation Tree Challenge will match dollar for dollar, up to $500,000 for a total of $1,000,000, donations for trees planted in the City. Your gift will be used for trees within public spaces on your neighborhood streets, along main roadways, or in City parks.
Due to the generosity of many, the Tree Challenge has currently raised over $327,000 including matching funds. Your gift will enable even more trees to be added in our City, so let’s make this happen!
The Tree Challenge ends December 31, 2021, and we need your help! Please consider making a gift of any amount to the Blair Foundation Tree Challenge by contacting the Naples Community Services Department at 239-213-7120 or visit us online at https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec.
To make a tax-deductible donation, please mail a check, payable to City of Naples, to the following address:
Community Services Department: Tree Challenge
280 Riverside Circle
Naples, FL 34102
Time is running out on this excellent opportunity and generous offer from the Blair Foundation. Will you help our community maintain its “Tree City USA” designation?
For all who appreciate the trees that enhance Naples – Thank you for your consideration.
The City of Naples Community Services Advisory Board
Anne Russell Foster – Chair
Joanne Jeffreys – Vice Chair
Kathy Swingley
Nathaniel Smith
Richard Kneedler, Alternate
THE BLAIR FOUNDATION TREE CHALLENGE
