Driving through Bucks County, we are so accustomed to taking in the natural beauty around us that it is easy to take for granted the little hints of nature that appear in unexpected places whether it be flowers blooming at the entrance of a residential community, or new trees budding along the roadside. However, as the warmth of spring approaches, this is the perfect time of year to take a moment to appreciate the careful thought and planning that goes into each and every new sprout and sapling we encounter throughout our towns.
Bucks Beautiful is an environmentally focused organization that is dedicated to ensuring that the beauty of our community is preserved for generations to come. Since 1991, the non-profit, based in Doylestown PA has been coordinating events, community projects and educational programs to develop and enhance the public landscapes of our towns, parks, pathways and roadsides.
One of the organization’s most successful programs, Bulbs for Bucks, has led to the beautification of a number of public spaces in Newtown, Doylestown and surrounding areas. Since the inception of the project in 2010, an astounding 1.6 million daffodils bulbs have been planted along roadways and business areas, including 20,000 new bulbs which were planted this past fall in honor of healthcare employees, first responders, essential workers and loved ones. The daffodils are now in full bloom, and can be experienced through a driving tour – the perfect spring outing for those of us who have been eagerly awaiting the first signs of spring - especially as those pandemic blahs drag on!
Bucks Beautiful is also leading the way with reforestation efforts in the community through its “tree-mendous” RePlant Bucks program. The goal of the project is to replenish the many trees that are lost each year to storm damage, insects and disease, with a goal of ultimately planting 10,000 young trees for future generations to enjoy. So far, with support from local landscape firms and donations from the public, the organization has installed 1,525 native trees at parks, historical sites, schools and non-profit facilities. Recently, the organization’s ambitious goals caught the attention of landscape business owner Colin Slota of Slota’s Property Maintenance in Holland. Colin heard about RePlant Bucks and immediately knew it was a cause he wanted to get behind. In partnership with Bucks Beautiful, he has pledged to plant one tree in the Newtown area for every 10 trees that he sells to residential and commercial customers. When asked about his commitment to the project, Colin said, “I was intrigued by RePlant Bucks efforts and it inspired me to figure out a way to support their goal. I love Bucks County and I have spent my whole life here. The idea of helping beautify it is so rewarding. I hope our efforts inspire other community members to get involved.” Colin has already arranged to donate 2 new trees this spring, slated for Linton Memorial Park in the borough, with many more planned for the future!
In a typical year, spring is a busy time of year for Bucks Beautiful as the organization hosts a Lecture Series, Kitchen and Garden Tour, and an annual Spring Fling Gala and Auction. With the pandemic, many events have been modified or put on hold this season, so check their website for updates and information about future events. You will also find information about membership opportunities as well as a map of their popular Daffodil Tour! Thank you for helping to keep Bucks Beautiful!
http://www.bucksbeautiful.org
IG: @bucksbeautiful
Slota’s Property Maintenance: www.slotaspropertymaintenance.com. 267-254-6747
