Rotary trees planted at Oro Valley’s Steam Pump | News

Before it got too hot March 18, town of Oro Valley workers dug into some of the community’s finest soil, the dark, rich loam at historic Steam Pump Ranch.

Loren Abell manned the small front-end shovel, excavating four deep, rectangular holes for trees donated by the Rotary Club of Oro Valley and its nonprofit Oro Valley Rotary Foundation.

Toby Brown, Tyler Jimenez and Ian Hess joined Abell in the preparation and planting of the 6- and 8-foot multitrunked velvet mesquite trees.

Rotary and its foundation raised $1,800 to purchase the trees for planting in the grassy space at the historic property along Oracle Road. Planting locations are strategic, to preserve mountain views as well as access for food trucks and other vehicles.

Rotary and its Foundation serve Oro Valley with projects and funds “to help strengthen our growing communities,” a release said. Its members have traditionally allocated funds for helping nonprofit organizations serving youth, families, seniors and veterans at risk.

This time, “we were looking for something sustainable that we could contribute to our beloved Oro Valley community and its residents and visitors for generations to come,” said Jane Shurtleff, the club’s communications and community service chair.

Shurtleff, who sat on the parks and recreation citizens task force during formation of the OV’s Path Forward 10-year plan, learned “loud and clear” that citizens wanted more shade in community parks.

When they’re mature, these trees can provide such cover.

“For over three decades, the Rotary Club has faithfully served our Oro Valley community,” said Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield. “This generous donation of shade trees to Oro Valley residents and visitors is representative of the valuable and sustainable relationship we have between our town and its local Rotary Club members.”

A plaque is being installed, and it’ll be dedicated at the club’s Taste of Oro Valley event on Sunday, April 12. The Rotary Club of Oro Valley “is honored to donate four shade trees in service to current and future generations of Oro Valley residents and visitors,” it reads.