If you have been to Lake Cunningham Park at the peak of summer, you know that the sunnier portions of the park can get quite hot. Walking along the Inner Lake Path in 90°F+ heat can be particularly trying.

There is good news around the corner. Parks & Rec staff has just approved a proposal to plant 29 shade giving trees on both sides of the Inner Lake Path. The distance covered is 1,500′, from the Native Garden to the Fishing Pier.

The selected trees are all locally native or near-locally native trees. This means they establish more easily and quickly than non-native trees, require less water and maintenance, and provide habitat to local birds and other fauna. Within 10 years, the trees will be tall enough to provide shade to walkers and joggers and bicyclists on the Inner Lake Path. Three out of five chosen species will turn a brilliant yellow before dropping their leaves in fall, and the path will continue to receive full sun during winter.

For a tree list and planting plan, see the project summary here: Shade Tree Project Summary

We seek volunteers to help with installing irrigation and planting the saplings. Three workdays are planned:

1. Saturday, Nov 11, 9am-1pm: Irrigation installation Session 1
2. Saturday, Nov 18, 9am-1pm: Irrigation installation Session 2
3. Saturday, Dec 2, 9am-1pm: Planting 29 trees

We welcome your help at any or all of these workdays. To volunteer, click on any of the sessions above.

Directions and Forms are available from links at the top of this page.

Wear garden-appropriate clothing; dress in layers suitable for the weather. A hat, sunblock, and garden-worthy shoes are recommended. Gloves and tools will be provided.