The City of Rifle is embarking on an exciting project to enhance the beauty and sustainability of its parks. With the generous support of the Xcel Energy Foundation and the Colorado Tree Coalition, the City is planting sixteen new trees across several parks in the area, including Davidson Park, Centennial Park, and Joyce Park.
The project aims to improve the urban landscape of Rifle while also providing important environmental benefits. The new trees will be strategically placed to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere in each park, while also providing ample space for people to enjoy picnics, play sports, or simply relax in the shade.
To ensure the success of this project, the City is working closely with local tree experts to select species that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. The City is also implementing a comprehensive maintenance plan that includes regular watering, pruning, and fertilization to ensure the health and longevity of the new trees.
Overall, the City of Rifle’s tree-planting project is an exciting initiative that will have long-lasting benefits for the community. By improving the urban landscape, providing environmental benefits, and fostering community engagement, this project is a true win-win for everyone involved.
The mission of the Xcel Energy Foundation is to use the collective knowledge, resources, and skills of staff and colleagues to make a positive impact. Through their Focus Area Grant program, Energizing the Future, they support nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that perform in one of three focus areas: STEM Career Pathways, Environmental Sustainability, and Community Vitality. In 2022, the Foundation awarded $4.4 million to 426 nonprofit organizations through their focus area grant giving.
The Colorado Tree Coalition (CTC) is a non-profit whose mission is to preserve, renew and enhance community forests statewide. The CTC awarded $44,315 in grants to 17 organizations in 2022. These grant projects allowed recipients to plant and manage trees in community forests across Colorado. Since 1991, the CTC has awarded grants to 225 communities and organizations totaling more than $1,125,000. These grants have been matched with more than $8 million in community money and in-kind services
Media Contact:
Austin Rickstrew, City of Rifle Parks and Recreation Director, 970-665-6578
David Flaig, Colorado Tree Coalition Treasurer, dflaig1@msn.com