What you need to know about Mayor Battle’s annual tree planting day

This weekend, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle is urging folks to come out to Brahan Spring Park Nov. 2 for his annual tree planting day.

Battle has hosted this event at John Hunt Park since 2014, but the event has been moved to Brahan Spring Park due to the need for new trees in the area.

Here’s what to know:

Tree planting with Mayor Battle

This year’s planting will feature a diverse selection of trees: oaks, maples, bald cypress, river birch, yellow poplar, southern magnolia, redbuds, dogwoods and a few elms. Each tree you plant is an investment in a greener future for Huntsville.

Brahan Spring Park spans 169 acres and features multipurpose fields, a disc golf course and a recreation center. It’s also part of Huntsville’s long-term vision to establish a network of greenways, connecting the community from North Huntsville to the Tennessee River.

“This event not only contributes to local sustainability efforts but also enhances the beauty of our parks. This year, about 300 trees will be planted in Brahan Spring Park, and I can use your help.”

Mayor Tommy Battle

A great time for planting trees

While it might seem that trees don’t grow much during the winter, their roots are working hard beneath the surface. Strong roots are crucial for the tree’s health, especially as folks prepare for the hot summer months ahead.

“When you plant container-based trees with limited irrigation, you want to establish as many roots as possible before the heat arrives.” 

Marc Byers, City of Huntsville arborist

You also do not need any experience to participate in this event.

The Green Team will have everything ready for you—holes will be pre-dug to the perfect depth, and the trees are manageable enough for all ages to handle.

You’ll even find child-sized shovels to help pack the soil once your tree is in place. Green Team experts will be on-site to answer questions, and if he’s around, Mayor Battle may share some tips on tree planting.

Anyone interested in participating needs to meet at 2213 Drake Ave. SW from 9AM to noon.

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