InTucker Magazine

Trees Atlanta

The City of Tucker has successfully met its goal of adding 40 new trees to the local ecosystem. While the process required significant planning, the effort has already begun to enhance the environment and improve local habitats. This influx of greenery provides a vital boost to the community, offering shade to cool paved surfaces, mitigating heat, and purifying the air. Beyond these environmental perks, the trees assist with stormwater management, provide habitats for local wildlife, and offer significant social and psychological benefits to Tucker’s residents.

This initiative was made possible through a partnership with Trees Atlanta, a non-profit dedicated to mitigating tree loss, protecting forests, and expanding the canopy across the Atlanta metro area. Last August, the Mayor and City Council were presented with a proposal to join the organization’s Front Yard Tree Program. This green-friendly initiative improves quality of life by allowing property owners in participating municipalities to have a tree planted in their front yard free of charge.

Participants were given the opportunity to select their preferred species based on availability, choosing from a diverse list including:

• Large Shade Trees: White Oak, Willow Oak, Shumard Oak, Nutall Oak, and Sycamore.
• Ornamental & Native Favorites: River Birch, American Hornbeam, American Persimmon, American Beech, Tulip Poplar, Bald Cypress, Tupelo, and Red Maple.

The process was designed for ease: once a property owner’s application was approved, a representative from Trees Atlanta provided a consultation, handled the logistics, and performed the planting.

Recognizing the value for residents, the Mayor and Council unanimously approved the resolution in a 7-0 vote. With Trees Atlanta capping the initial project at 40 trees, the City set its sights on reaching that maximum goal they met with ease.

The response from the community was overwhelming, with 53 property owners applying for the program. Michael Lupsha, a senior manager with Trees Atlanta, expressed his excitement regarding Tucker’s high engagement levels.

“Trees Atlanta was very excited about the opportunity to expand our yard tree program and develop a partnership with the City of Tucker,” Lupsha said. “It is always fun and rewarding to engage with and plant yard trees for community residents that share a passion for the environment and the communities that they call home.”

Planting began last October and the 40th tree was nestled into the ground this past March. Residents were so thrilled with the results that many reached out to the Council to express their gratitude. Interestingly, the program even reunited some residents with the non-profit; several participants who had used Trees Atlanta in other cities were eager to take part again now that they call Tucker home. Councilmember Amy Trocchi noted that the community’s passion for the project was evident from the start.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with Tucker’s enthusiastic support for our partnership with Trees Atlanta,” Trocchi said. “The Trees Atlanta organization was a no brainer to partner with, and our community has embraced them and their mission right out of the gate.”

Beyond the immediate environmental impact and aesthetic appeal, these trees offer a space for social connection. As they mature, they will provide shaded spots for neighbors to relax and enjoy the local birdlife. For Michael Lupsha, this human element is the most rewarding part of the work.

“There are many things I enjoy about working at Trees Atlanta but one thing that really stands out for me are the many friendly interactions and conversations that I get to have with community members and residents from all walks of life,” Lupsha said.

As these trees grow over the coming decades, they will continue to serve as a symbol of the community’s commitment to a greener, more connected Tucker.