Mufreesboro, TN:  On October 8, 2022 volunteers with Green Interchange will plant 300 trees and 1,000 live stakes (willow or other cuttings that will take root), and will maintain about 100 trees previously planted at Garrison Creek - a tributary of Bushman Creek. This is part of an ongoing stream restoration project launched 10 years ago by the Tennessee Environmental Council.  

The volunteer event takes place on October 8 from 9am-12pm. Volunteers will meet at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 1267 N. Rutherford Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN.  No prior experience needed. Volunteers are encouraged to register in advance at https://www.greeninterchange.org/news/108-plant-trees-in-murfreesboro     

Work on Garrison Creek was originally started in 2012: Because of a lack of stream-like characteristics, Garrison Creek was managed as a ditch for years. The stream is listed on TN's polluted streams list (i.e. 303 d list). The Tennessee Environmental Council and other partners teamed up to restore the LOWER portion of the creek in 2012. This video from Murfreesboro CityTV shows the impressive results of the project.  

“Planting a tree is one of the best things we can do for the community. Trees have already helped transform the lower portion of this waterway into a functioning stream, and we are excited about restoring this upper section. Trees provide many additional benefits for the community including shade, beauty, cleaner air and water, habitat and food for wildlife, and so much more,” said John McFadden, CEO of Green Interchange. 

Project partners include Mississippi River Network / 1 Mississippi, Tennessee Environmental Council, Rutherford County and the Murfreesboro Stormwater and Street Departments, McFadden Community Center, and Water Walkers.