Publix commemorates millionth tree planted with the Arbor Day Foundation
May 19, 2023
For the 7th consecutive year, we’re supporting the Arbor Day Foundation by funding tree plantings to support reforestation projects throughout Florida. Funded by a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Publix reusable bags, these plantings are part of our efforts to support the restoration of the state’s damaged watersheds.
Most recently, we funded the planting of 269,000 trees in Econfina Creek, a once-thriving forest ecosystem in the Florida Panhandle that was devastated by Hurricane Michael in 2018. The plantings, completed earlier this year, will help restore critical habitats for wildlife and reduce water runoff. The latest donation brings our contribution to 1 million trees planted over 7 years.
Commemorating the milestone
To commemorate the millionth tree planted and in honor of National Plant Something Day, a tree-planting ceremony was held at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida.
At 168 acres, the land at Bonnet Springs Park was originally one of Florida’s largest rail yard operations. But after closing in the 1980s, the property was unused for more than 40 years before reopening as a park in 2022.
“We’re proud to commemorate the millionth tree milestone at Bonnet Springs Park alongside the Arbor Day Foundation,” said CEO Todd Jones. “It’s in our mission to be involved as responsible citizens in our communities, which includes improving the areas in which we serve. We look forward to continuing to care for our associates, customers and communities by being good stewards of our environment.”
“Publix’s donations have been instrumental in making a positive environmental impact across Florida,” said Arbor Day Foundation Chief Executive Dan Lambe. “We are grateful for their continued support over the last 7 years.”
How our donation makes a difference
Watersheds are essential for supplying drinking water, creating habitats for plants and animals, and protecting ecosystems. Trees planted from our donations help protect watersheds by reducing runoff, allowing more water to soak into the soil, reach aquifers and ultimately be transformed into drinking water.
In addition to Econfina Creek, our donations to the Arbor Day Foundation have funded tree plantings in
- Little Orange Creek Nature Preserve in Alachua County, Fla.
- Sunnyhill Restoration Area in Umatilla, Fla.
- Emeralda Marsh in Leesburg, Fla. and
- Withlacoochee River Watershed, which flows through Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, Polk and Sumter counties in Florida.
Moving forward, we plan to expand tree plantings to other states within our operating area, creating an even more widespread impact.
More information about our sustainability efforts
Visit our sustainability website.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the world’s largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. With a focus in communities and forests of greatest need, the Foundation — alongside its more than 1 million members, supporters and valued partners — has helped to plant nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries. Guided by its mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation is committed to unlocking the power of trees to help solve critical issues facing people and the planet. Learn more about the impact of the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org.