The history of memorial trees started gaining popularity in the U.S. in the 1900s to commemorate the fallen soldiers of World War I. Today, families continue the tradition of planting a tree for their departed friends and relatives.
Moorestown has two tree programs – a remembrance and a memorial tree effort – for individuals and families to honor a specific person or life event. Tree planting also enables individuals to celebrate births and birthdays, weddings and anniversaries or company milestones.
To have a memorial tree planted, there must be a written request approved by the family and the township manager. The location, size and type of a tree requested will be reviewed to ensure its survival and health. Trees are maintained by the township, and if a plaque is installed, the individual making the request will be responsible for its cost, as well as maintenance and installation.
The Moorestown Tree Remembrance Program accepts monetary donations, and the donor will receive a certificate to commemorate a gift of $250 or more. For this program, trees are chosen and planted by the public works department in the spring. Proceeds will be used to supplement the township’s Tree Planting Program. All donations are tax deductible.
However an individual donates a tree to their community – through either of the township’s two planting programs – the gift of trees enhances the quality of life for generations to come. For more information, contact the Moorestown Tree Planting and Preservation Committee at moorestowntrees@gmail.com.
