Seeds are being planted this weekend to make Jacksonville’s parks even more beautiful.
Jacksonville alderwoman Lori Large Oldenettel says the tree planting takes the place of the Town Brook Clean Up, which is now planned for every other year. Large says students from Illinois College will help plant trees.
“In my position at Illinois College, I opened it up to some students so we have some students volunteering. It was circulated through U of I Extension, so we have some volunteers coming from (U of I Extension). She adds that additional volunteers are welcome.
Oldenettel invites everyone to drive through the city’s parks to see the improvements.
“The team has done a really amazing job of trying to beautify our parks. They’ve been planting trees on a regular basis, removing trees, and making them more friendly and usable for our community. I really encourage (everyone) to take the time to drive through and look at the parks and (see) all of the work that has been done over the last few years. It looks amazing.”
The tree planting for Make a Difference Day will take place at both Nichols and Community parks starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. More information about how to volunteer is available by calling alderwoman Lori Large Oldenettel at 217-370-4597.