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School Committee backs $34,000 tree-planting grant for HES playground
Summary
The committee voted 5-0 to support a $34,000 grant application to plant 10 native trees around the Harvard Elementary School playground, with a local resident volunteering to water trees for two years; members asked staff to confirm planting locations with the original landscape architect and consider water-saving measures.
Ms. Sachs Leicher presented a proposal to plant 10 native trees around the HES playground and asked the committee for support for a $34,000 grant application due March 20. She said the proposed species would match existing plantings and that a local resident committed to watering the trees for two years.
Committee members raised site-safety and sightline concerns near the soccer field and asked staff to consult the original landscape architect to confirm appropriate locations. Participants discussed watering needs (about 20 gallons per tree per week was mentioned) and options such as rainwater barrels to reduce ongoing water costs.
Dr. Linda Dwight and Chair Abigail Besse agreed to review the proposal prior to final submission. The committee voted unanimously, 5-0, to support the grant effort as described and to provide a letter of support conditioned on final site verification.
The committee did not authorize tree planting work at this meeting; final planting locations and implementation details will be decided after landscape review and any required town approvals.
