CommuniTree is a community-assisted nursery program that serves as a local source of native trees and shrubs for riparian restoration projects across Northwest Arkansas. By growing and distributing regionally appropriate species, the project helps support streambank stabilization, improve water quality, and create wildlife habitat where it’s needed most. The program is led in partnership with the Arkansas Forests and Drinking Water Collaborative, funding for this program provided by the Arkansas Dept. of Agriculture – Forestry Division, project #0001357, and the program is supported by a network of local partners working together to protect forests and drinking water resources.
A key part of this program is our partnership with Beaver Water District, which hosts the CommuniTree nursery on its property, providing a central location where bare-root seedlings are potted, cared for, and prepared for distribution to local restoration projects. This collaboration helps ensure native trees are grown close to where they will be planted—supporting both watershed health and drinking water protection.
A Look Back at 2025
Above: Daniel Hagood, Senior Ecologist with the Alliance, demonstrates proper tree potting techniques for volunteers during the spring CommuniTree event at Beaver Water District
We kicked off this project in 2025 with a successful spring community potting event, where volunteers came together to pot more than 1,000 native tree and shrub seedlings for future riparian restoration projects. Hosted at Beaver Water District, the event brought together community members, students, and partners to help launch the growing season and prepare seedlings that would later be planted along local waterways. We are grateful to our partners who supported this effort, including Arkansas Forests and Drinking Water Collaborative, Beaver Water District, the City of Lowell, Oasis Carwash, and the community volunteers.
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Above: Volunteers pot over 1,000 native tree and shrub seedlings in spring 2025, preparing them for planting later that fall
That spring effort came full circle in the fall during the War Eagle Creek Workshop and Planting Event on October 16, when nearly 600 of the native trees, potted in spring, were planted along War Eagle Creek to support streambank stabilization and habitat restoration. The event was hosted in partnership with the Beaver Watershed Alliance and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, with additional support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, SARP, Bass Pro Outdoor Fund, and Beaver Water District.
Above: Mr. Roberts and Har-Ber High School students join staff from the Alliance and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission after planting trees they helped pot during the spring CommuniTree event
A special thank you goes to Mr. Roberts and his students from Har-Ber High School. This group volunteered at both events. From helping pot seedlings in the spring and then returning in the fall to plant those same trees along War Eagle Creek, they participated in the full circle moment. Their involvement captures the spirit of CommuniTree, connecting education, stewardship, and long-term environmental impact.
We are deeply thankful to the many volunteers, students, landowners, and partners who contributed their time and energy throughout the year. Their involvement made CommuniTree’s 2025 impact possible.
Above: Community members work together to plant nearly 600 native trees along War Eagle Creek
Looking Ahead
CommuniTree will continue in the coming year with additional potting events, plantings, and opportunities to get involved as native trees are prepared for restoration projects across Northwest Arkansas. From seedlings in pots to trees taking root along local streams, CommuniTree shows what’s possible when community members and partners work together. Together, we’re protecting waterways, improving water quality, and investing in a healthier future for Northwest Arkansas
To stay informed about this project and volunteer opportunities, sign up for our e-news and volunteer email lists by clicking here, follow us on social media, or contact us at info@beaverwatershedalliance.org.
