(L-R) Decorah Rotarians John Baker and Paul Mullen prepare to plant a tree along Main Street under the friendly guidance of Decorah Tree Board and Lion member Dick Guilgot
 
Decorah Rotarians and Lions joined forces to brave the cold, northwesterly winds and occasional snow showers on Saturday, October 12 in providing ongoing support to the City of Decorah tree planting initiative. More than 40 trees of a variety of species were successfully planted in various locations throughout the city. The Decorah Tree Board encourages the planting of trees by its residents so future generations may enjoy the benefits of reduced pollution, a more beautiful city, increased habitat for wildlife, and the conservation of energy from the natural air conditioning and wind protection that a diverse tree cover provides. The initiative has taken on greater importance in recent years with the widespread loss and preventative culling of ash trees in response to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation.
 
Our club extends its thanks to those who contributed their time and energy: Decorah City Forester Sam Hogenson, Decorah Tree Board Chair Scott Timm, Decorah Lion and Tree Board member Dick Guilgot, Tree Board members Mark Faldet, Tina Hall, Brent Parker, Drew Pellet, and Peter van der Linden, Decorah Lion Steve Matter, and Decorah Rotarians John Baker, Darrel Branhagen, Jim Dale, Shannon Duncan, Larry Grimstad, Phil Iverson, Mark Lane, Gary Mineart, John Moeller, Paul Mullen, Uwe Rudolf, Ron Snell, and Jeff Tomlinson.
 
Additional photos may be found in the companion album here: Decorah Tree Planting Day - Oct 12
Photo credits: Don Holmertz, Gary Mineart
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