Volunteer Tree Planting on Cemetery Brook
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
📍 Cemetery Brook, Greensboro, Vermont
🌧️ Rain date: Wednesday, September 30, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
🍴 Lunch provided
Help restore Cemetery Brook and the Caspian Lake watershed
Want to get your hands dirty for cleaner water?
Join Orleans County Natural Resources Conservation District for a volunteer tree planting day on Cemetery Brook in Greensboro. Together, we'll begin putting a major stream restoration plan into action by planting native trees and shrubs along the brook.
This planting is part of the restoration vision for the Alley property, identified as a critical priority through the Caspian Lake Watershed Action Plan. Our planning work has included drone aerial imagery, LiDAR mapping, hydric soil assessments, and detailed evaluation of the property's streams and drainage.
The current concept plans call for a 100-foot riparian buffer, removal of two failing culverts, installation of a stone ford, and strategic removal and plugging of drainage tiles. The project is planned as the largest-ever ecological restoration project within the Caspian Lake watershed.
Now, we're ready to get some plants in the ground.
What we'll be planting
Volunteers will help establish a diverse native riparian planting that includes:
- Speckled alder
- Red osier dogwood
- Arrowwood
- Common pussy willow
- Silky willow
- Silky dogwood
- Buttonbush
These trees and shrubs will help stabilize streambanks, slow runoff, provide habitat, and strengthen the natural buffer between the land and Cemetery Brook.
Come lend a hand
No specialized experience is required. We'll provide guidance and direction throughout the planting.
Please bring:
- Your own shovel
- Sturdy footwear appropriate for working outdoors near/in water
- Water bottle
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Important: Because we're actively managing invasive species, please clean your boots and any tools before arriving at the planting site. Starting with clean equipment helps prevent the spread of invasive plants into the restoration area.
Lunch will be provided.
About the Alley Property Restoration
The Alley property was identified as a priority project through the Caspian Lake Watershed Action Plan, which evaluated the watershed to identify significant stressors to water quality and ecosystem health.
The restoration design aims to address erosion, stream health, and the movement of water across the landscape. By restoring riparian vegetation and strategically addressing drainage infrastructure, the project will help slow and filter runoff while improving habitat and stream function.
Landowner Trish Passmore Alley summed up the spirit of the project:
“We conserved our land for environmental reasons, so it made sense to participate in this stream restoration program. We are trying to strike a balance between caring for the land and for its stewards.”
Ready to help?
Join us Tuesday, September 29 from 9:00 AM–1:00 PM and help put this restoration plan into the ground.
Registration is required.
