Tree Planting Program Launches for Cape Charles Historic District

Applications open through November 15 for spring planting event.

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Property owners in the Cape Charles Historic District have a new opportunity to enhance their streetscapes this fall through the Plant-a-Tree Program, a community initiative that supports the planting of native and ornamental trees in the public right-of-way between sidewalks and streets.

The program, open exclusively to historic district property owners, officially began accepting applications on September 10, 2025, and will continue through November 15, 2025. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and may be submitted by email to cccivic1886@gmail.com or mailed to CCHDCL – Plant-a-Tree, c/o Mark Usry, 117 Strawberry Street, Cape Charles, VA 23310.

According to organizers, trees planted under the program will be approximately 7 to 10 feet tall when installed. The initiative follows guidelines from the Cape Charles Tree Master Plan, emphasizing the use of native and resilient tree species suited for urban environments.

Each applicant may select a first, second, and third choice from an approved list of trees, ranging from smaller species like the Fringe Tree (Chionanthus virginicus) and Okame Cherry (Prunus okame) to larger options such as the Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) and Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica).

Download the full list of approved trees here

Once applications are received, property owners will mark their preferred planting locations with stakes provided by the committee. The committee will then document the selections and submit them to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for approval. After VDOT grants permission, Miss Utility will inspect each site to ensure that underground utilities are not affected, and stakes may be adjusted as needed.

A community planting day is scheduled for March 2026, when volunteers — including participating homeowners — will help plant the trees throughout the district. Property owners pledge to water their newly planted trees daily for the first 30 days to ensure healthy establishment.

The program not only supports beautification but also advances the town’s environmental goals by increasing canopy coverage and promoting native species beneficial to local wildlife.

For more information, residents may contact the committee via email at cccivic1886@gmail.com.

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Wayne Creed

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