From planting trees and protecting forests to teaching students and celebrating volunteers, it has been a busy and inspiring stretch for Ellsworth’s urban forestry and environmental stewardship efforts. Over the past week, City staff, students, volunteers, and community partners came together for several events focused on caring for Ellsworth’s natural spaces and growing a healthier, greener future for our community.
Monitoring for Emerald Ash Borer Along the Riverwalk
On May 18, 2026, City staff member Michael Otzwirk, Alan Chausse, and University of Maine graduate student Zoe Albion installed a purple prism trap along the Ellsworth Riverwalk to monitor for Emerald Ash Borer. This is an invasive species threatening ash trees across Maine. The trap is part of a larger statewide effort to track and respond to the spread of the insect. The City extends its thanks to Zoe and the Ash Protection Collaboration Across Waponahkik (APCAW) for partnering with Ellsworth on this important work.
Nearly 70 Students Help Plant 80 Trees
On May 19, 2026, almost 70 students from Ellsworth Elementary Middle Schools joined volunteers and community organizations to plant 80 new trees in the Community Tree Nursery. Students also participated in a guided nature hike where they learned to identify tree species and spent time connecting with the outdoors.
This event was made possible through collaboration with: 
- City of Ellsworth staff
- Frenchman Bay Conservancy
- Maine Conservation Corps
- Ellsworth Arbor Commission
- Jackson Laboratory
And a special thank you to the Ellsworth Moose Lodge for supplying pizza for the students and volunteers.
Ellsworth Celebrates 5th Year as a Tree City USA
Later that week, May 21, 206, City staff traveled to Augusta for the Maine Arbor Week Award Ceremony, where Ellsworth was recognized as a Tree City USA community for the fifth consecutive year.
During the event, staff highlighted Ellsworth’s growing forestry efforts, including:
- Community Tree Nursery work
- Street tree planting initiatives
- Workforce development partnerships
- Environmental education opportunities
The recognition reflects Ellsworth’s continued commitment to protecting and investing in its urban forest.
Community Volunteers Step Up for Spring Cleanup
The week wrapped up with a successful Nursery Spring Cleanup event on May 23, 2026 where volunteers joined City staff to help water trees, repair landscape fabric, spread mulch, and prepare the nursery for the summer season. Volunteers also learned proper tree care techniques and helped make the work ahead a little lighter for the team caring for the nursery this summer.
The City of Ellsworth is incredibly grateful to everyone who volunteered their time, energy, and expertise throughout the week. Together, these efforts help strengthen Ellsworth’s environment, beautify our community, and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy healthy trees and natural spaces for years to come.
We hope you enjoy these great photos from these events!
