There’s been a subtle shift in front of the East Greenwich Police Department, one you may not really appreciate until spring, when the three crabapple trees planted there last Saturday will be covered in magenta blossoms. The trees were planted by the EG Tree Association in its first official act since forming as a group last spring. (Full disclosure: I am a member of said group.)

Town Council Michael Isaacs (in green) was on hand for the tree planting Saturday, as was Main Street Association member Jason Beaumier. Photo credits: EG Tree Association

The group was formed to help establish a municipal tree farm, to encourage the replacement of trees downed by storm or disease, and to provide advice to residents and the town on tree types that will do well in the area.

Money to pay for the trees (since the town does not yet have its own tree farm) came from the Cindy-Wood Garden Club, which got a $250 grant from the R.I. Federation of Garden Clubs and matched it. The Main Street Association also helped out, providing additional money to cover the cost of the delivery and pay for watering bags. Watson Mulch donated one cubic yard each of compost and mulch for the planting.

Cindy-Wood Garden Club members (from left) Dottie Calvano, Susan Curado and Gloria DiPaola.

The idea to plant trees in front of the EGPD seemed straightforward enough, especially since the grassy area in front of the station has no power line interference.  However, come planting time last Saturday, the task proved more challenging, both due to the dry weather and the nature of the soil.

After some dogged work by member Doug Brown and his son, Jesse, that included using a pickax, the first hole was dug. The next two came a bit easier. Other helpers included Gene Dumas and MSA’s Wendy Leonard and Jason Beaumier.

From left, Elizabeth McNamara, Wendy Leonard, Jason Beaumier, Doug Brown and Jesse Brown.

If you are interested in joining the EG Tree Association, or in making a donation, contact [email protected].