Marshall groups, volunteers plant dozens of trees to enhance community health, tree canopy

Marshall looks a little greener after volunteers with the Marshall Area Conservation Committee (MACC) spent the day Saturday at spots across town planting dozens of donated trees one shovel at a time.

In partnership with the city of Marshall, MACC volunteers planted 60 trees during the event called “The Greening of Marshall.” Funding for the trees was donated to the city of Marshall by Ford Motor Company. MACC volunteers, Ford employees and others participated in the tree planting.

“It is inspiring to see people who are passionate about the health of our community come together to plant trees, which will promote community beautification, as well as heat and noise reduction,” said Jim Durian, CEO of the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance. “Efforts like these continue to make Marshall a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

The additional trees also prevent stormwater runoff, create wildlife habitats and will help to increase home values in Marshall.

Ford donated $25,000 for the purchase of trees to the city of Marshall to help the municipality continue its status as a Tree City USA, which provides communities with a framework to maintain and grow their tree cover.

“At Ford, we are committed to being a great neighbor and employer and this donation is just one example of our mission to give back to the Marshall community,” said Gabby Bruno, Ford’s community relations director. “Planting trees in Marshall is a long-lasting investment in the community that will benefit area residents long into the future.”

The MACC organization is a group of local volunteers that coordinates events and outreach focused on protecting the air, land and water in the Marshall area.

“It was incredible to see so many volunteers come out to help plant trees that will enhance the health and beauty of our community,” said Ian Campbell, chairperson of the MACC. “These trees will be enjoyed for generations to come, and we are deeply appreciative of Ford’s generous donation to this cause.”

Ford has made numerous contributions to groups throughout Calhoun County as part of its commitment to invest in the community where the company is building its BlueOval Battery Park Michigan in Marshall, which will produce batteries for electric vehicles.

The company has contributed to several beloved facilities and attractions in the county, including the Brooks Memorial Fountain, Binder Park Zoo and Bohm Theater, among others.