Middletown Secures Third Straight Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant

For the third year in a row, the Town of Middletown has received a Virginia Trees for Clean Water grant, continuing an effort that has already added dozens of new trees throughout the community.

The latest award totals $10,000 and will support the planting of approximately 40 to 50 native trees as part of the town’s ongoing Main Street revitalization work.

Town officials say the project aims to improve shade, cooling, wildlife habitat, water quality, and the community’s overall appearance.

“The community will greatly benefit from the shade, cooling, and other ecosystem services that trees provide,” said Virginia Department of Forestry District Forester Matt Wolanski. “The diverse selection of species we’ve chosen should thrive in this environment, and the native varieties will create excellent habitats for local wildlife.”

Middletown’s participation in the program has already produced visible results.

A 2024 grant funded 32 new trees, while the 2025 award added another 28 through plantings tied to Earth Day, Arbor Day and July 4. In all, the town says the initiative has brought 65 new trees to Middletown over the past two years.

The Virginia Trees for Clean Water program provides funding to municipalities and organizations for tree purchases, supplies, installation and, in some cases, private contractors. Awards can be as high as $50,000.

While the grant does not pay for tree removal, Middletown has also been working to remove invasive Bradford pear trees as replacement plantings become established.

Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV said more than a dozen Bradford pears remain along Main Street, with the town’s maintenance department and volunteers removing about two to three each year.

Harbaugh credited the Department of Forestry for helping the town shape its planting strategy.

“We are incredibly grateful to District Forester Matt Wolanski for his guidance in developing our plan,” Harbaugh said.

He said the town sees the effort as more than a beautification project.

“Neighborhoods rich in trees enjoy lower crime rates, cleaner air, reduced energy costs, and higher property values,” Harbaugh said. “Walking among these trees improves the health and well-being of our residents, making this initiative a crucial step toward a greener, healthier Middletown.”

Harbaugh also pointed to the environmental role of a healthy tree canopy, including filtering air, reducing soil erosion, supporting wildlife and pollinators, storing carbon, and helping protect water quality.

The 2026 plantings are expected to take place in early October.

The town is also working with Lew Boyer and Boyer Landscaping to stretch the grant funding and complete the project.

Residents interested in helping with the tree-planting effort are encouraged to contact Harbaugh at charbaug@su.edu.

(From Middletown Press Release)