Norfolk Va. – The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation (ERT), in partnership with the United Way of South Hampton Roads will spend the United Way Community Day of Caring with a massive tree planting at the Larchmont Library Trailhead. The large-scale effort will take place between 7:30 am and 12:30 pm and will involve over 200 native plants, grasses and berry bushes, as well as 10 new trees like Black Tupelo, Eastern Red Cedar and Yaupon Holly. 

This is the latest enhancement of the Larchmont Library trailhead following August’s ribbon cutting of the ERT Foundation’s second kayak launch and public art rammed earth wall on the library site. The majority of the trailhead enhancements have been grant funded. This landscaping project is made possible by a $15,000 Virginia Department of Forestry Grant. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue increasing the tree canopy in Norfolk and using native plants to help build a more resilient trail,” said Kindra Greene, Executive Director of the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation. “The plants, grasses, shrubs and trees were chosen specifically to help stabilize the ground, assist in flood mitigation and of course provide shade for trail users and a pollinator habitat and thriving ecosystem.” 

The Larchmont Library trailhead was designed with resilience in mind. Every aspect of the enhancements reflect the conservation aspect of the area and the protected wetlands surrounding this unique intersection of the Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers. . 

The community is invited to join in the volunteer effort, no experience needed. All tools and instructions will be provided. 

Event Details

• ERT Larchmont Library Trailhead
• Friday, September 18 | 7:30 am – 12:30 pm
• 6525 Hampton Blvd. Norfolk, VA 23508 

Parking is available at Larchmont Library. Attendees are also encouraged to arrive by walking, biking, or rolling along the Elizabeth River Trail. 

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About The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation

The Elizabeth River Trail Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides the planning, program, and advocacy for the Elizabeth River Trail, (a designated National Recreation Trail), to connect 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 sculptures, a double turbo challenge course in Plum Point Park, The Glowline, an ERT hydration station, and most recently a Trailside HQ and outdoor classroom. Major sponsors include CHKD, Vigor Marine/MHI and the City of Norfolk. elizabethrivertrail.org