October (or OAKtober) is Oak Awareness Month! Oaks provide a myriad of benefits including carbon storage and stormwater interception, increased property values, lower energy costs, food and habitat for wildlife, and improved community health and well-being. Unfortunately, oak ecosystems across the Chicagoland region are in decline with few young trees to replace them. Celebrate OAKtober and help grow our community forest by planting an oak tree this fall!

The Chicago Region Trees Initiative is partnering with local retailers and offering discounted trees between October 1- 31. For more details, visit https://chicagorti.org/program/oaktober-tree-sale/

Information about the Chicago Wilderness’ Oak Ecosystems Recovery Plan and tips for selecting and planting trees can be found at www.chicagorti.org.