Volunteers Invited to Help Plant 150 Trees in Sunset Terrace Neighborhood

The City of Rochester Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with RNeighbors to invite residents to take part in a community tree planting event on Saturday, May 9, 2026, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at 1707 19^th Avenue NW. 

The RNeighborWoods event will bring together volunteers of all ages to plant 150 boulevard trees in the Sunset Terrace neighborhood, helping grow Rochester’s urban forest and enhance the community for years to come. No experience is necessary, and all are welcome to participate. 

Urban trees play a vital role in Rochester’s neighborhoods by improving air quality, managing stormwater runoff, providing natural cooling, and supporting residents’ mental and physical well-being.

“This event is a powerful example of what can happen when neighbors come together with a shared purpose,” said René Halasy, Executive Director of RNeighbors, Rochester Neighborhood Resource Center. “Not only are we planting trees, but we’re also strengthening connections and building a more vibrant, sustainable community.” 

“Every tree we plant today is an investment in Rochester’s future,” said Alison Litchy, the City’s Forestry Manager. “They will help shape healthier, more vibrant neighborhoods for years to come.” 

Upon arrival, volunteers will check in and be assigned to small groups led by certified Citizen Foresters. Each group will receive a brief demonstration to ensure proper planting techniques before heading out to plant trees. A variety of tree species will be planted to promote a diverse and resilient urban canopy, with shorter varieties selected for areas beneath power lines. 

Since 2004, the RNeighborWoods partnership has mobilized more than 7,900 volunteers to plant nearly 9,000 trees across Rochester, helping strengthen neighborhoods and expand the city’s tree canopy. This spring event continues that longstanding tradition.  

Participants are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and bring a shovel (labeled with their name) and gloves if available. Free street parking is available nearby, and water and pizza will be provided following the planting event.  

Event Details 

• What: RNeighborWoods community tree planting event 

• When: Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. 

• Where: Sunset Terrace Elementary School, 1707 19th Avenue NW 

This RNeighborWoods event is made possible through a partnership between the City of Rochester Parks and Recreation Department, RNeighbors, Sargent’s Gardens, Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa, The Davey Tree Expert Company, and event sponsor Waste Management. 

For more information, visit 2026 Spring RNeighborWoods Community Tree Planting — RNeighbors.