The Cumberland County Soil Conservation District (SCD) has scheduled its Annual Tree, Plant and Shrub Sale Fundraiser for April 6 and 7.

Trees and plants are very important to every community no matter how large or small. In an urban environment trees have multiple uses to include wind breaks, living screens, a soil binder to help reduce erosion, as well as noise barriers. Also, natural existing and newly planted trees increase property value and add natural beauty and diversity to the landscape. A hidden benefit provided by trees is their ability to capture and store carbon monoxide from the atmosphere, which decreases the threat of global warming. In addition, trees release life-giving oxygen back into the atmosphere. Flowering shrubs and perennial species provide food for important pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The tree, plant and shrub sale will be Thursday and Friday, April 6 & 7, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The location will be at the Cumberland County Community Complex (fairgrounds) at the Livestock Pavilion.

There will be a variety of trees and shrubs available and will be priced based on type and size. Some of the items normally available include: Boxwood, Cleveland Pear, Dogwood, Forsythia, Holly, Hydrangea, Junipers, Leyland Cypress, Nandina, Rhododendron, and Weeping Willow. There should also be a variety of fruit trees available. In addition to trees and shrubs, there will be hanging baskets and other perennial plants such as ground covering phlox, iris, columbine and coneflowers.

Timely and proper planting after purchase, followed by reasonable care, should result in healthy, beautiful trees and shrubs that will provide enjoyment for many years. Only good quality items will be available and all sales are final.

The district is a non-profit organization and uses the tree sale to help raise funds for its conservation education efforts and other operating expenses. The information and education program includes support for high school Envirothon teams, Soil and Water Stewardship Week activities, educational material for schools and college scholarships.

If you have any questions, please call the SCD office at 484-5442, Ext. 3 or stop by the office in the USDA Service Center located at 314 Old Jamestown Highway beside the U.S. Post Office.

All programs and services of the Cumberland County Soil Conservation District (SCD) are offered on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, or handicap.