Nearly 200 Native Trees Planted at Lumberjack Landing

On a beautiful Sunday morning, community members came together at Lumberjack Landing Park to make a lasting investment in Stillwater's environment. More than 30 volunteers joined Sustainable Stillwater MN's Bird City program on June 7th to plant nearly 200 native trees and shrubs in one of the city's newest parks.

Thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of volunteers of all ages, every tree was successfully planted by the end of the event. Native species including Pin Cherry, Hackberry, American Hazelnut, White Oak, American Basswood, and Red Maple now have a home at Lumberjack Landing, where they will provide food, shelter, and nesting habitat for birds and other wildlife for years to come.

Located along the St. Croix River flyway, Lumberjack Landing serves as an important stopover habitat for migratory birds. By restoring native vegetation, this project helps strengthen local biodiversity, improve climate resilience, and support Stillwater's ongoing commitment as a Bird City community.

This restoration effort was made possible through a Tropical Wings grant awarded to Sustainable Stillwater MN's Bird City program, as well as a strong partnership with the City of Stillwater. Special thanks to Andrew Coyne, City Forester and Natural Resource Technician, for his leadership and support throughout the project.

Andrew Coyne explaining tree guards.

Beyond the trees themselves, the event created opportunities for neighbors to connect, learn about local conservation efforts, and explore future volunteer opportunities. Many participants discovered the event through SSMN's website, social media, and community partners, demonstrating the power of community collaboration in creating positive environmental change.

A heartfelt thank you to every volunteer who spent part of their weekend digging, planting, and caring for the future of our community. Together, we've helped create a healthier habitat for birds and a greener future for Stillwater.