NEWS RELEASE
4 April 06

Service Forester Herb Peddicord knows the values of trees; that's why he is spearheading a campaign to plant a quarter million of them in Morgan County.   Originally slated to begin in 2007, the tree planting initiative known as "A Time to Plant Trees" was pushed forward to begin this year.

"Trees have an impact on everyone's life," said Peddicord, an employee of the West Virginia Division of Forestry.  "Besides the aesthetic benefits
they provide, trees help improve air and water quality, prevent soil
erosion, provide habitat for wildlife, and create opportunities for outdoor
recreation.  In urban landscapes, trees also can help reduce heating and
cooling costs."

All trees planted from January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2008, including those purchased from home improvement centers and tree nurseries for landscaping purposes, may be counted toward the quarter million goal. Landowners can also purchase tree seedlings from the Division of Forestry's Clements State Tree Nursery.

Reporting of tree plantings can be done through a new web site established by the Morgan County Tree Board, www.morgancountytrees.com, or by contacting Peddicord at his office in Berkeley Springs.  Plans are underway to develop "drop-off points" throughout Morgan County at which tree planting information can be submitted.  Most trees will be counted toward the quarter million goal, with the exception of some exotic ornamentals and some trees that can become invasive like mimosa and tree of heaven.  For more information on what specific species should be avoided, residents can contact Peddicord at his office in Berkeley Springs.

A monumental task of this nature can't be accomplished alone, so Peddicord is depending on the help of a tree planting board and volunteers to make the program a success.

"Everyone can play a role in this initiative.  From churches and civic
organizations, to schools and businesses, "A Time to Plant Trees" is a
perfect opportunity to become involved and give something back to Morgan County," Peddicord said.

An official kick-off for "A Time to Plant Trees" is being scheduled for
April 20, in conjunction with the town of Bath's Arbor Day Celebration.

For more information about "A Time to Plant Trees" visit the web site,
www.morgancountytrees.com, or contact Service Forester Herb Peddicord at (304) 258-6205.

For more information about purchasing tree seedlings from Clements State Tree Nursery, visit the Division of Forestry's web site at
www.wvforestry.com.