Treecember 2022 | Please Help us Reforest Appalachia

Last year, Treecember 2021 was a heartfelt success as we planted over 1400 trees in Idaho, helping to boost forest biodiversity and resilience, in an area where the risk of wildfires and disease outbreaks is significant.

This year, Treecember 2022 is supporting reforestation in Appalachia, a region that stretches from New York all the way down to Alabama and Georgia. Over the years, much of the forest has been degraded by mining and timber operations and forest fires – an estimated 83% of habitat has been lost.

Just like last year we’re working with OneTreePlanted to plant one tree for every job completed. But this year, in an effort to expand and amplify the impact of the CheckSammy community, we will plant 10 trees for every new location we service. Whether it’s a new location for an existing client, or the first time servicing a new client, that’s 10 trees planted.

Appalachia is one of America's most beautiful regions, stretching from the state of New York all the way down to Alabama and Georgia. Home to the namesake Appalachian Trail, more than 150 tree species can be found in the region, making it one of the most diverse ecological regions in North America. Unfortunately, the resource wealth of the region also means much of the forest has been degraded by mining and timber operations. Over the years, an estimated 83% of habitat has been lost.

The project we’re supporting this year is a 5-year, multi-state effort to return formerly unproductive mining, logging, and agricultural land to balance. Planting trees also benefits nearby communities by improving hydrological functions, providing better quality water and creating meaningful jobs in communities suffering from high rates of poverty and unemployment.

A variety of trees will be planted in the affected area, including oak, yellow poplar, American chestnut and hazelnut, silky dogwood, and persimmon. Planting native tree species is critically important after deforestation, helping the entire ecosystem recover with both native flora and fauna. Without tree planting, these areas become overrun with non-native invasive species. As one of the most biological diverse regions of North America, planting trees will help preserve the unique biodiversity of Appalachia. Salamanders, song birds, and copperhead snakes are just a few of the animals that are helped.

So this year, please – share with colleagues and coworkers, friends and family so we can all make an impact in Appalachia!