200 Trees Planted for Rush County’s Bicentennial

By Press release submission

Nov 12, 2022

On Saturday, October 22nd, The City of Rushville Parks Department and countless volunteers planted 200 tree to celebrate Rush County’s Bicentennial year. The Bicentennial Tree Project was financed through the generous support of a Duke Energy Nature Grant.

The City of Rushville currently has seven active parks totaling over 80 acres (North and South Memorial, Carol Jenkins-Davis, Laughlin, Discovery, Willkie, and Riverside). Many of the parks boast wide-paved trails that are stroller and ADA wheelchair accessible. The paths are frequented by walkers, yet still lack the natural growth that would bring them to their full beauty. This addition of 200 trees to the Rushville Parks system will continue to aid in the beautification and conservation efforts of the Parks Department.

“Planting 200 trees for a Bicentennial celebration is almost unheard of,” comments Rushville Mayor Mike Pavey. “But through the support of Duke Energy, Rushville is once again making a commitment to Rush County and its beautiful parks systems.”

Historically, Rushville has lost several mature trees to INDOT projects, storms, and the infestation of the emerald ash borer. This project, and accompanying grant, is dedicated to creating shade and overall visual improvement in our underdeveloped parks and properties. The Rushville Bicentennial Tree Project serves as a commitment to a cleaner, greener community and the next 200 years.

This project was made possible by countless volunteers and City of Rushville employees that dedicated their time and effort toward the rejuvenation of the Parks’ green spaces. The Duke Energy Grant was co-authored by Kathi Jackley (Parks Department Natural Resource and Program Coordinator) and Nicholas Neuman (City of Rushville Intern). The planting was coordinated by Kathi Jackley and the City of Rushville Parks Department. This tree planting was just one small part in Rush County’s Bicentennial celebration and Rushville’s parks beautification. It is because of the support of Duke Energy, the work of the Parks and Recreation Department, and the support of the community that this project was possible.