Staff Report
BUDA — The city of Buda Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to creating and maintaining parks and recently received the H-E-B’s Trees for Texans’ Communities program grant, stated a news release.
According to the program website, $5,000 grants are offered to nonprofits, municipalities and civis organizations in order to increase tree canopy, reduce the heat island effect, increase available greenspace and/or beautify public spaces in Texas.
To help Texans cultivate a deeper connection to nature and promote environmental stewardship, the Parks and Recreation Department invites the public to join as it plants native trees alongside H-E-B partners and community volunteers at 9 a.m. Jan. 19 in Summer Pointe Park, located at 1026 Old Black Colony Road.
Additionally, there will be a conservation fair organized by Arnav Venkatesh, a local Life Scout representing Troop 967 from Buda.
“Trees for Texans is a long-term investment in the future of all Texans, including our community in Buda,” said Anahi Villarruel, project manager at H-E-B environmental affairs. “The trees planted with community volunteers, city of Buda employees and our H-E-B partners will help support biodiversity [and] provide cleaner air, shade and water filtration for generations of Texans to come.”
Native trees provide crucial ecosystem services, such as air and water filtration, shade and cooling. Trees also enhance communities, said the release, providing educational opportunities and mental health benefits that enrich the quality of life of Texans.
