400 Trees will Lead Another Free Guided “Tree Walk & Talk”
Through Downtown Gloucester Oct. 24

Jack Montgomery
Based on positive feedback and the success of the first tour, another free guided Tree Walk & Talk will be offered for residents and visitors to explore Gloucester’s urban forest at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, beginning at the Sawyer Free Library.
Led by International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist and 400 Trees Tree Director, Jack Montgomery, the tour will explore tree planting locations throughout the downtown area while offering practical lessons in tree care, proper pruning, and the important role trees play in creating healthy, vibrant communities. He will be joined by local tree and plant expert, Chris Wood.
Similar to the first event, the particular focus of the walk will be structural pruning, a proactive approach to developing strong, healthy trees with a form that is well suited to the challenges of an urban environment. Montgomery will demonstrate how thoughtful pruning can improve a tree’s health, longevity and appearance while helping participants understand the unique demands placed on city trees.
Montgomery has over 20 years of experience in the arboriculture industry. As an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist and a Certified Tree Care Safety Professional, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project.
“Urban trees have to coexist with the cityscape around them as well as the people,” Montgomery said. “With the right attention early on, we can help these trees thrive in this environment for years. With the right care, we can make the trees become stronger, healthier, and better suited to grow in these conditions.”
The walk will also explore how we can care for and expand its growing urban forest while recognizing the many benefits trees provide to the community — from shade and beauty, to healthier neighborhoods, and a more vibrant downtown.
The program is part of the ongoing Tree Talks lecture and educational series produced by 400 Trees, a Gloucester-based nonprofit dedicated to engaging youth and planting trees, in collaboration with the Sawyer Free Library. Tree Talks bring local and regional experts together to share knowledge about native trees, plants and Gloucester’s unique ecosystem through educational programs and community events. 400 Trees works to cultivate a healthier, greener, and more connected Cape Ann for generations to come.
Registration is required at luma.com/gw2l5jqb.
For more information, visit www.400treesma.org.
