Bluemont Junction Greenway
About the Bluemont Junction Greenway ReLeaf Project:
American Forests and the Arlington County Parks and Natural Resource Division worked together to plant 33 native trees along the Bluemont Junction Trail.
Key ReLeaf Activities:
- Planting 33 hardwood trees.
- Restoring and rehabilitating natural areas along a recreational trail.
- Providing habitat for local wildlife.
Why this ReLeaf Project?
This project took place at the edge of Bluemont Park, a park located in a highly urbanized area just outside of Washington, D.C. that is used for recreational activities such as biking, jogging, picnics and more. The 33 native hardwood trees will provide area recreationalists with several benefits, including shade along the trail and aesthetic beauty. Additionally, the trees will provide a continuous corridor of habitat for local wildlife, decrease stormwater runoff volumes, lower radiant heat and serve to sequester carbon. The native hardwoods planted will also replace and mitigate the effects of several invasive species that have taken over much of the trail.
Why Green Corridors?
Establishing rich and diverse green corridors in urban areas improves the overall appearance of recreational trails and can also play a key role in increasing wildlife populations. Continuous canopy layers support a variety of species, including migratory songbirds, through habitat and food supply. In addition, the installation of placards along green corridors can serve as a living educational tool for the public, as the signs often offer information about the benefits of native trees to the local area.