Green Industry Celebrates Record-Breaking Year
TREE Fund Shatters Fundraising Goals
In a landmark achievement for the green industry, the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund) reports unprecedented success in 2014. The organization’s three signature events have collectively raised $765,000, marking a new high for the foundation.
Pedaling for Progress
The STIHL Tour des Trees emerges as the star performer. For they generated over $608,000. This cycling event does more than fill coffers; it also cultivates awareness about the critical value of mature, healthy trees in communities. Learn more about the STIHL Tour des Trees.
Cyclists don’t just ride. They educate. Professor Elwood Pricklethorn, a self-proclaimed ‘certified arborfessor’, brings tree science to life for children across Wisconsin. His engaging presentations reach seven locations. That’s of course sparking young minds to appreciate urban canopies.
Auctions Amplify Impact
The Raise Your Hand for Research Auctions contribute significantly to the cause. These events alone bring in $143,459. For that’s further bolstering the TREE Fund’s resources.

Research Reaps Rewards
TREE Fund’s research initiatives yield tangible benefits. Urban tree management improves, pollution reduction strategies.
More trees, less pollution
Then pest management is evolving too. The foundation’s work touches every aspect of arboriculture, from improving transplant survival rates to quantifying urban trees’ benefits.
Investing in the Future
Janet Bornancin, President/CEO of TREE Fund, emphasizes the broader impact of these funds. “Science is the key to combatting threats to our urban canopies,” she states. The organization doesn’t just fund research; it invests in the next generation of tree stewards through scholarships and education programs.
Industry Giants Step Up
STIHL Inc., Bartlett Tree Experts, and The Davey Tree Expert Company lead a roster of industry heavyweights supporting the cause. Their involvement underscores the green industry’s commitment to sustainable urban forestry.
As 2014 draws to a close, the TREE Fund’s record-breaking year sets a new benchmark for the green industry. It proves that when businesses, researchers, and communities unite, they can cultivate a greener, healthier future for all.
Sources:
Stihl TOUR DE TREES, TREE Fund, STIHL Inc., Bartlett Tree Experts ,The Davey Tree Expert Company, Arborjet, Asplundh, ISA, KASK, TCIA and Wisconsin Arborist Association, Naperville, IL, September 12, 2014

