Virginia Tree Stewards

Virginia Tree Stewards

Tree Stewards are trained community volunteers committed to promoting healthy urban and rural forests in Virginia.  Tree Stewards provide training classes, educational programs, and projects in their communities intended to increase public awareness of the value of trees while teaching about trees and tree care. With classroom training and hands-on practice, Tree Stewards are equipped to identify trees, counsel on tree selection, demonstrate proper tree planting and follow-up care, and guide removal of invasive plants that threaten trees. Information regarding upcoming training opportunities and volunteer events can be found on the respective tree steward chapter website.
Each person taking the Tree Steward training makes a commitment to return a specific number of volunteer hours contributing to local Tree Steward projects. Each community determines the number of hours, sets the standards for volunteer work, and decides the Tree Steward projects its volunteers will undertake. Tree Steward volunteers are a positive force for change in their communities.  All Tree Steward projects are tailored to meet the needs of their communities.
Virginia Tree Stewards Flag

Virginia Tree Stewards
Training Manual

The 4th edition (2020 revision) of the Virginia Tree Steward Manual is available online - see link below!  This edition includes 10 units and select Tree Steward stories from across the state. Thank you to everyone that helped make this revision happen. Enjoy!
Tree Steward Training Manual

Mini Grants

The Trees Virginia Mini-Grants are intended to assist the work of Tree Stewards in their communities. These funds may be used to support the training of Tree Stewards, purchase tools and equipment, acquire trees to plant, or develop educational materials or events. The purpose of the mini-grants is to provide equitable appropriation to Tree Steward Groups rather than awarding funds to groups on a first-come, first-served basis.

This is a reimbursement grant – the group must spend the funds requested first, and only after the Reporting Form is submitted will a refund check be sent. Receipts must be received for all expenses that are associated with the project. If necessary for larger projects, a partial reimbursement can be requested while the project is still ongoing. For new Tree Steward groups that cannot upfront costs for a project please reach out and expenses can be directly paid for certain projects.
Who may apply?
There are currently 13 established groups throughout the state, with three other localities in the startup process.  All groups are encouraged to apply using the online application linked below.

Interested in applying for a mini grant?

Grant proposals, applications and budgets need to be submitted by September 30, 2023. Please use the link below to complete our online application.

Tree Steward Symposium

Trees Virginia, in partnership with the Virginia Tree Steward Chapters, hosts a bi-annual educational conference for active tree steward members. This event allows groups to share, socialize and learn about each other’s programs. Groups share challenges and accomplishments as well as learn about the latest tree care management best practices. Join us for the next symposium in 2023!
People attending tree symposium

Get Involved

We need your help! You can help us protect our urban forests and community trees.