On Sept. 17, the University of Kentucky’s Facilities Management arboriculture team joined more than 40 volunteers from across the region in a day of service called Saluting Branches. The program brings together tree care professionals who donate their time and expertise to care for trees and landscapes at properties serving veterans across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico.
The UK Grounds Arboriculture team participated at the Lexington VA Health Care System Franklin R. Sousley Campus, one of more than 100 sites involved in this year’s effort. At the one-day event, more than 12 companies and approximately 45 volunteers came together for a shared mission of honoring veterans by enhancing the landscapes they use and enjoy.
The UK Arboriculture team contributed to the day's work by clearing deadwood and raising tree canopies, helping to ensure the long-term health and beauty of the trees throughout the campus.
“We are here to support the veterans that visit the hospital,” said Susan Murray, the onsite co-leader for Saluting Branches. “The landscape is just as important as the buildings, and we are here to help beautify the outdoor areas veterans utilize.”
The work performed during the event is estimated to be the equivalent of a more than $100,000 donation in professional tree care services, according to Patrick Sinclair, Center for Development and Civic Engagement service chief officer at the Lexington VA Health Care System.
“This event allows us to allocate resources in other ways and helps us showcase what we do here for veterans,” Sinclair said. “It also highlights the beautiful campus, showcases our community coming together and helps us keep our trees for another 100 years.”
The impact was felt not only by the hospital and its visitors, but also by the arborists who donated their time.
“This is my first time participating in Saluting Branches,” said Kyle Youngs, lead arborist in UK Grounds. “It makes me feel good. It’s nice to know the work we are doing to take care of the trees is making an impact and is appreciated.”
For Dustin Hodges, arborist with UK Grounds, this marks his third year participating in the event.
“I appreciate knowing that their nice, big, old trees are getting the care they need.”
Nic Williamson, UK Grounds arboriculture superintendent, said the team worked first on pruning a silver maple for parking and sidewalk clearance and then removed two dead black locusts.
“It was gratifying to work alongside other tree companies,” Williamson said. ”It’s a really neat chance to do something we do every day but for a unique and good cause. I’m glad we had the chance to chip in to improve the grounds and trees at the VA med center.”
Kyle Youngs, lead arborist for UK Grounds, climbs a silver maple during the Saluting Branches event held at the Lexington VA Health Care System Franklin R. Sousley Campus.
Jennifer T. Allen
Dustin Hodges, arborist, Nic Williamson, arboriculture superintendent, and Kyle Youngs, lead arborist donated their time and expertise at the Saluting Branches event that took place on Sept. 17.
The UK Grounds Arboriculture team prepped the area around a silver maple before beginning pruning work for parking and sidewalk clearance.
Kyle Youngs, lead arborist for UK Grounds, pruning a silver maple for parking and sidewalk clearance at the Lexington VA Health Care System Franklin R. Sousley Campus.
Kyle Youngs, lead arborist in UK Grounds, prepares his equipment for climbing.