ODNR forestry division is selling tree seedlings

Ohio is about 30 percent forested, compared with 12 percent in the early 1900s.
COLUMBUS -- Landowners seeking to create wildlife-friendly woodlands can now order mixed packets of tree seedlings from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry for delivery in spring 2007.
The new packets are available as part of the annual sale of Ohio Conservation Seedlings.
ODNR is now accepting orders for specialty packets, which come in two sizes: 250 or 500 seedlings. Both mixed packets include five wildlife-friendly tree species: red oak, white oak, American crabapple, white or red pine and hazelnut. Black cherry or American plum may be substituted for the hazelnut in some instances. Price of a 250-seedling packet is 275; 500-seedling packet is 400. Shipping is included.
Each packet order also includes a year's subscription to "Wild Ohio," the magazine of the ODNR Division of Wildlife, and the "Ohio Woodland Journal," a publication of the Ohio Tree Farm System and the ODNR Division of Forestry.
Landowners seeking to establish all types of tree stands on their property are encouraged to order Ohio Conservation Seedlings now for delivery next spring. Orders received before December 31 will receive a 10 percent discount. The seedlings, available in groups of 100, are 1 to 2 years old and bare rooted. A minimum order of 100 seedlings is required.
The Division of Forestry, the state's largest producer of tree seedlings, sells more than 2 million trees each year. The seedlings are sold for use in reforestation, wildlife habitat development, erosion control, windbreaks and other conservation projects. Seedlings are grown in fertile soils at the Marietta State Tree Nursery and available for distribution in the spring.
What's available
More than 40 varieties of native trees are available for purchase this season, including white pine, black cherry, white oak, red oak, black walnut and bald cypress. Early ordering is recommended since some species, such as burr oak, hazelnut and sycamore supplies are limited and these species sell out quickly.
Thanks in part to the sales of Ohio Conservation Seedlings, the state is now more than 30 percent forested, compared to just 12 percent in the early 1900s. In the past 80 years, the Division of Forestry has planted more than 500 million trees for reforestation efforts in the state.
Selecting the proper type of tree for a particular location and soil characteristic is essential for a successful planting. The Division of Forestry's service foresters are available to help landowners in choosing the right trees. Assistance is recommended for plantings on more than 5 acres.
For tree seedling availability and pricing, or for a list of service forester office locations by county and telephone numbers, contact the Division of Forestry toll free at (877) 691-8733 or online at ohiodnr.com/forestry/seedling.