Oklawaha Greenway Walk and Talk: Identifying Our Native Trees

The popular series, “Walks and Talks Along the Oklawaha Greenway,” returns!  This time we will focus on identifying and understanding native trees.  Meet at Patton Park in the circular pavilion near the basketball courts. The walk will be about 90 minutes, returning to Patton Park and will be held rain or shine.  The program is co-sponsored by Hendersonville Tree Board and Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway.

Wes Burlingame, a retired nurseryman and member of the Hendersonville Tree Board, will lead the walk. The newest section of the Greenway, between Patton Park and Berkley Park, features 500 planted native trees as well as many mature trees.

“Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway is a group of people who see beauty and multiple values in our wonderful greenway and who want to use it as a tool to learn more about our natural environment,” said Suzanne Hale, a member of the group.  “The Greenway is also popular for recreation, transportation, family outings, and it contributes handsomely to our economy.”

Hendersonville Tree Board is commissioned by the City of Hendersonville to provide advice on the selection and care of trees and shrubs in public places.  The Tree Board also educates the public concerning the economic and aesthetic benefits of trees and shrubs for the community.  The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Hendersonville as a Tree City USA for 25 years because of its high level of tree care.  The city also became a Bee City USA in 2015.