NORFOLK, Va. – The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation has been awarded a $15,402
grant from the Virginia Department of Forestry to support the planting of native trees
and shrubs along the Elizabeth River Trail by the Larchmont Library.

The grant will fund the purchase and installation of canopy trees, understory trees, large
shrubs, soil, mulch, and planting supplies, helping to expand the ERT’s urban tree
canopy and enhance the natural habitat along this section of the 10.5 mile trail.

The planting project will be part of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation’s Nature for All
programming, which focuses on connecting people with the natural environment while
promoting stewardship of Norfolk’s outdoor spaces.

In addition to improving the landscape along the ERT, the project will include
educational programming and volunteer planting opportunities, giving community
members the chance to learn about native plants, urban forestry, and the ecological
benefits of expanding Norfolk’s tree canopy.

“We’re grateful to the Virginia Department of Forestry for supporting this effort to
strengthen the natural environment along the Elizabeth River Trail,” said Kindra Greene,
Executive Director of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation. “Projects like this help make
the ERT not only a welcoming place for recreation, but also a living classroom where
the community can learn about the importance of native plants and environmental
stewardship.”

Community members will have opportunities to participate in upcoming volunteer
planting days and educational events connected to the project.

More information about volunteer opportunities and Nature for All programming will be
shared at elizabethrivertrail.org and on the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation’s social
media channels.

The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides the planning,
program, and advocacy for the Elizabeth River Trail connecting Naval Station Norfolk to
the Virginia Beach Trail. The Elizabeth River Trail runs 10.5 miles through businesses,
and historic attractions and is within a 5-minute walk of 28 neighborhoods. The multi-
use trail is designed for walking, running, and biking. It comprises 11 sections from
Norfolk State University, through Downtown Norfolk and Old Dominion University to NIT
Terminals along the Elizabeth River. The Foundation has completed multiple new
unique and award-winning amenities, including kayak launches, play sculpture, and a
double turbo challenge course in Plum Point Park, and most recently, the installation of
the first ERT hydration station. Major sponsors include CHKD, Downtown Norfolk
Council, PRA Group, and the City of Norfolk.