The Friends of Greenview work to restore and enhance the nature area by planting native trees and shrubs in Greenview and Pioneer Woods to support wildlife, improve biodiversity, and beautify the landscape. The trees and shrubs for these projects are funded by grants and donations, with volunteers involved in the planting. Friends of Greenview also engage Pioneer High School students in planting, providing them with valuable educational experiences as they learn about habitat restoration and the benefits of native trees.
Oak and Chestnut Grove
For 20 years, the Friends of Greenview have been planting a grove of native oak and chestnut trees near S. Seventh St. In addition to American Chestnut trees, the grove includes Shingle Oak, Red Oak, Bur Oak, Swamp White Oak, and Chinkapin Oak. Oak trees, in particular, bring great benefits by providing essential food sources for many species of birds, mammals, and insects.
This project was made possible through a grant program from the DTE Energy Foundation, a grant from Ann Arbor Farm & Garden, and other generous donations.
Shingle Oak Quercus imricaria
Red Oak Quercus rubra
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Swamp White Oak Quercus bicolor
Chinkapin Oak Quercus muehlenbergii
American Chestnut Castanea Dentata
Swamp White Oaks at Glen Leven Entrance
In the spring of 2024, Friends of Greenview purchased four Swamp White Oaks for the Glen Leven entrance to Pioneer Woods, thanks to generous donations from the community. We planted these trees with the help of the Pioneer High School Plant Club. The students also spread wood chips and underplanted the oaks with native sedges and wildflowers. This project was completed in areas previously cleared of invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle by FOG volunteers.
Serviceberries Along South Seventh
In the spring of 2022, in commemoration of Arbor Day, the Friends of Greenview planted six Amelanchier serviceberry trees along South Seventh, just north of Scio Church Rd. The Pioneer High School Sustainability Club helped with the planting. Amelanchier trees add seasonal interest to the park, with beautiful spring blooms and summer berries that are important for wildlife.
