CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Thanks to green-fingered teenagers, 15 new trees will increase shade and air quality at Maddox Park in Carmichael.

Maddox Park is at 4821 Thor Way.

The recent effort was part of the Carmichael Kiwanis Clubs’ Giving Tree Project, which aims to augment Sacramento’s green canopy by planting habitat-friendly trees in schools and public places.

SMUD director and environmental activist Heidi Sanborn instructs teenage volunteers in the art of tree staking. Photo by Susan Skinner

With help from Key Club volunteers from local schools, Kiwanis members dug into soil, fortuitously loosened by overnight rain.

SMUD director and environmental champion Heidi Sanborn gave planting and staking tips to 30 helpers from Jesuit, El Camino, Del Campo and Rio Americano High School Key Clubs.

“Planting trees is something we can all do to help our habitat,” Sanborn said. “You are leaving a legacy. You’re not planting these trees for yourself. They are for future generations.”

Del Campo High School Key Club members plant a Gingko sapling in Maddox Park, 4821 Thor Way. Photo by Susan Skinner

The new oak, Gingko and desert willow saplings were donated by the Sacramento Tree Fountain. Carmichael Park District maintenance workers will nurture their future growth.

Giving Tree Project Sponsors include SMUD, Coalition for Clean Air, the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael and San Juan Unified School District. Learn about the program at www.kiwanisclubofcarmichael.com.

Teenage volunteers join Carmichael Kiwanis members and Mission Oaks Park District staffers as 15 new trees are planted in Maddox Park, Carmichael.  Photo by Susan Skinner