Trevecca Urban Farm Announces Regional Tree Planting Initiative

Just in time for Earth Day, Trevecca Nazarene University’s Urban Farm has announced The Eden Project, an initiative aimed at advancing tree equity in the southeastern United States.

As part of the three-year project, the Urban Farm plans to plant 400 trees in disadvantaged communities throughout the Southeast, using faith-based resources to advance canopy equity, improve environmental education and increase career development for youth. The farm will partner with Nazarene churches in the region and connect with youth, congregants and pastors to help coordinate tree planting at the local level. 

This work plays a crucial role in advancing tree equity in historically disinvested communities. Urban trees are a fundamental part of the infrastructure, supporting public health, contributing to job growth and enhancing climate resilience. They are nature’s air conditioning and play an important role in helping to reduce emissions.

“We’re excited to announce The Eden Project as a way to bring more healthy trees to neighborhoods across the southeastern United States, strengthening our resilience for generations to come,” said Trevecca Urban Farm Director Jason Adkins. “We look forward to continuing to work with American Forests, its partners and our community to make progress in expanding this important work.” 

Trevecca’s regional project is being funded by grants from American Forests’ Tree Equity Catalyst Fund. Catalyst Fund grants are provided by the USDA Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry Program in partnership with American Forests. 

Trevecca Nazarene University (trevecca.edu) is a Christian university in the heart of Nashville focused on preparing students for lives of leadership and service.  Founded in 1901, Trevecca is committed to holistic education that encourages students to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. With students from 44 states and 41 countries, Trevecca offers 17 associate degrees, 78 undergraduate majors, 30 master’s programs and 3 doctoral programs as well as one specialist degree and three certifications. 

American Forests is the first national nonprofit conservation organization created in the U.S. Since its founding in 1875, the organization has been the pathfinders for the forest conservation movement. Its mission is to create healthy and resilient forests, from cities to large natural landscapes, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water and wildlife. The organization advances its mission through forestry, innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. More information about American Forests and the Tree Equity Catalyst Fund is available at americanforests.org.