NORFOLK, Va. -- Roughly 500 fruit trees were handed out to Norfolk residents for free at Lafayette Park on Saturday as part of Jam'N'Jamz, an event hosted by the Friends of Norfolk's Environment and in partnership with Keep Norfolk Beautiful.
The goal of the giveaway was to help preserve the tree-scape and environment in the City of Norfolk by allowing residents to plant a fruit tree, tend to it and allow it to grow. Norfolk's 2018 Green Infrastructure Plan said the city needs roughly 5,000 trees in order to expand the city's tree canopy, according to FONE's Chairperson Cindy Shurling.
Participants adopted up to two fruit or nut trees, including apple, pear, fig, hazelnut and pecan trees, among others. Blueberry, blackberry and raspberry bushes are also available.
Residents, when picking up a tree, agreed to plant and care for the tree.
The event also included exhibits on tree planting, cooking demonstrations, jam tastings, vendors and activities for kids.
Trees were given away near the tennis courts at Lafayette Park, located at 3500 Granby Street.
COVID-19 guidelines were observed: Masks were to be worn and social distancing was encouraged.
Jam'N'Jamz went on from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
(Editors note: we previously had a the wrong link attached and have since updated it.)
