One of our readers, Norm Brown, wanted us to pass along this information.

Did you ever want to learn how to identify trees? Or how to properly prune a young tree to insure good development? Interested in taking care of the trees in our community? Tree Steward Classes will be held on Mondays from 6:30-8:30PM at the Byrd Park Roundhouse on Feb.4, 11, 18, & 25 and March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31. Contact Norm Brown at (804) 646-6785 for more information.
Class topics include Tree Identification, Tree Biology, Selecting Planting Sites, Selecting Trees, Planting and Care, Health and Maintenance, and Proper Pruning Methods. Classes will be taught by area professionals in the tree care industry.
Registration is $95. Each participant is also asked to commit to 20hrs of community service upon completion of the program.
Also, on Saturday, April 5th, volunteers will be offered training to drive the City Watering Truck. The Class will be held from 8:30AM to 12 noon at the Byrd Park Roundhouse. Pre-registration is required. Volunteers do not have to take the Tree Stewards class.
The deadline for registration by mail has been moved to Jan 25th,
registration will also be available at the door.
The cost of the program covers the pruning tools that the Stewards will receive at the end of the program. The tools are 1 pruning saw, 1 sheath, 1 hand pruner and a safety vest. A certificate of Completion will be awarded at the end of the service hour commitment. All remaining funds will be used toward Tree Steward Projects. Steward Classes are sponsored by Dept.of Public Works

For an application go to:
http://groups.google.com/group/richmondtreestewards?lnk=srg