Reforesting Richmond School Campuses Through Community Tree Planting

A member of Groundwork RVA’s Green Workforce Crew breaks ground at Henderson Middle School to plant a young eastern redbud tree.

Southside ReLeaf partnered with Richmond Public Schools, Reforest Richmond, and community organizations to bring much-needed tree canopy to school campuses across South Richmond at the end of 2020. Many of these campuses had little to no shade due to historic land clearing and decades of underinvestment in tree planting, leaving students with hotter, less welcoming outdoor environments. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted an existing tree distribution initiative, Southside ReLeaf helped pivot the effort into a large-scale community planting campaign focused on schools with the greatest need.

Working alongside volunteers, students, workforce development crews, and local partners, we planted eastern redbud trees across multiple Richmond Public School campuses in just a few weeks. The project not only expanded tree canopy but also inspired student engagement in environmental stewardship and highlighted the need for stronger long-term urban forestry support within Richmond Public Schools and the City of Richmond.

Impact

• Planted 240 trees across eight Richmond Public School campuses in South Richmond.

• Prioritized schools with low tree canopy and limited access to shade and green space.

• Mobilized students, volunteers, and workforce development crews through hands-on planting events.

• Increased awareness of the importance of tree equity and environmental justice in school environments.

• Helped spark student interest in environmental clubs and long-term climate advocacy.

• Contributed to broader advocacy efforts that supported the creation of Richmond’s first urban forester position in 2023.

A member of Groundwork RVA’s Green Workforce Crew transports a wheelbarrow full of mulch to spread at the base of newly planted trees at John Marshall High School.

At J.B. Fisher Elementary School, a volunteer starts the process of planting a new tree.