Tree Adoption Program
About the Program
The Pico Rivera Tree Adoption Program was made possible by the San Gabriel Valley Conservation Corps (SGVCC) who applied and received $150,000 in grant funding from the Bezos Earth Fund to enhance urban greening efforts in Pico Rivera and create GreenWorks, a job training program for Pico Rivera youth. The eight youth selected for this program will learn the technical skills to plant 200 trees in the City in addition to essential professional development skills to help them succeed in any field.
The City of Pico Rivera is grateful to the Bezos Earth Fund, Green Latinos, and SGVCC for bringing this important project to the community. The City’s Office of Sustainability will be supporting coordination efforts to bring this project to fruition.”
Why Adopt a Tree?
- Boost Curb Appeal & Property Value – Tree-lined streets make neighborhoods more attractive and can increase home values.
- Fun Family Activity – Caring for a tree is a great way to bond with family and teach kids about nature.
- Stay Cool & Save on Energy Bills – Trees provide shade, keeping streets and homes cooler while reducing energy costs.
- Reduce Stress & Improve Well-Being – Greener spaces help lower stress and create a more relaxing environment.
- Breathe Cleaner Air – Trees filter pollutants, improving air quality for a healthier community.
Adoption Process
Here is what residents who participate can
expect from the Tree Adoption Program:
- Interested residents sign-up for a FREE tree and install from the GreenWorks team!
- The GreenWorks team will provide residents information planting schedules and the required tree care.
- Tree will be planted on street parkway in front of the selected resident’s home.
- Resident will support tree with watering needs as directed. SGVCC will also supplement with watering on a quarterly basis to ensure tree survival.
- Program participants will support care for the tree for the first 2 years until the tree is established.
Basic Tree Care Guide
Water
Water tree about 2 times a week during warmer months or 1 time a week during cooler months. Soak the ground significantly each time you water for 3 years since tree is planted.
Stakes
Tree stakes are used to temporarily help support the young tree until its roots are established. Public Works will remove the stakes after 12-18 months.
Water Basin
Please do not flatten the edges of the water basin or make it level with the surrounding ground. The basin serves to contain water in the area adjacent to the tree, which ensures water goes to root zones.
Weeds
Keep the area around the tree free from competing weeds and other plants, as they will take nutrients from the tree.
Pruning
Public Works will provide routine tree maintenance on a periodic basis once established. Please do not trim newly planted trees.
Here is what residents that participate can
expect from the Tree Adoption Program:
City of Pico Rivera
Office of Sustainability
The City’s Office of Sustainability is committed to developing initiatives that enhance various levels of community well-being. The Tree Adoption Program not only fosters a greener environment but also increases shade along parkways, making the City more walkable. Importantly, the program also provides local youth with job training and career exposure, empowering them to bring valuable skills back to the community.
San Gabriel Valley
Conservation Corps
The San Gabriel Valley Conservation Corps (SGVCC) provides young adults with job training, education, and hands-on experience in environmental conservation. Through projects like tree planting, habitat restoration, and waste reduction, SGVCC empowers local youth while improving local communities and San Gabriel Mountains. By combining workforce development with environmental stewardship, the program helps participants build valuable skills and create a greener future for the San Gabriel Valley.
Bezos Earth Fund
The Bezos Earth Fund is helping protect nature and address climate change through a $10 billion commitment from Jeff Bezos. By providing funding and expertise, we partner with organizations to accelerate innovation, break down barriers to success, and create a more equitable and sustainable world.
Green Latinos
Green Latinos is a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering Latino communities to advance environmental justice and climate action. The organization advocates for clean air and water, climate resilience, and conservation efforts while amplifying Latino voices in environmental policymaking. Through leadership development, advocacy, and grassroots organizing, Green Latinos works to create a more just and sustainable future for all.
