In 2023, the City of Hudson’s Conservation Advisory Council (CAC) planted approximately three dozen street trees and under-plantings throughout the five wards of Hudson.
Due to the efforts of former CAC member Britt Zuckerman, and through the support and efforts of the Hudson Development Corporation, Hudson’s CAC obtained a grant from the non-profit organization, Partners for Climate Actionto plant approximately two dozen street trees. The grant included funding for contractors to cut into the sidewalks and plant flowers and shrubs under the trees.
Representatives from Partners for Climate Action said, “”Partners for Climate Action is impressed with the work that the City of Hudson has been doing to expand its tree canopy. Planting trees is one of the most practical ways we can address climate change, and there are health and economic benefits from having more trees as well. Their application rose to the top for us, and we were delighted to award them an Ecological Restoration Grant.”
Hudson resident, Susan Simon, received a street tree planted in front of her house on Allen Street. “The birds were sitting and singing in the tree the next day.”
“The PCA [Partners for Climate Action] planting grant allowed resident and Landscape Architect, Britt Zuckerman, to create beautiful examples of harmonizing pollinator plantings and native species trees in a wide variety of sites, The sites have gained a lot of attention, inspiring many more residents desiring to plant trees and pollinator gardens.” said Hilary Hillman, Hudson CAC member.
Hilary Hillman is currently organizing Arbor Day this fall. Nine additional street trees will be planted via funding from the City of Hudson’s annual budget.
In 2023, the City of Hudson set aside approximately $13,000 for the Conservation Advisory Council, most of which is going towards the street tree program and potential pollinator garden.
Rich Volo, Chair of Hudson’s Conservation Advisory Council says, “Street trees show how the City can help combat climate change, and bring shade to an urban landscape. For 2024, the CAC is asking for about $23,000 from the City’s $12M annual budget, representing approximately 0.2% of the City’s budget. These funds will be used for more street trees and conservation efforts.”
Hudson’s Conservation Advisory Council is currently seeking volunteers. Meetings are the first Tuesday of the month at 6pm. If you are interested in being on the council, please email: richvolo@cityofhudson.org
Below photos represent examples of tree plantings from the Partners for Climate Action grant money.