A Reliance peach tree at Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park.
The Bristol Parks and Recreation Department recently received a $2,000 grant through the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation to plant fruit trees in Bristol parks. The purpose of the project is to offer free, healthy fruit to park visitors. Trees were planted in the following four Bristol parks:
Ten trees were planted at Ellingwood Park Information Center: Stanley plum (1), Reliance peach (5), Red Bartlett pear (1), (1) Green Bartlett pear (1), Lapins dwarf cherry (1), and Stella cherry (1).
• Two trees were planted at Hanna’s Landing: Red Bartlett pear (1) and Reliance peach (1).
• Three trees were planted at Pemaquid Beach Park: Stella cherry (1), Reliance peach (1), and Mount Royal plum (1).
• Two trees were planted at Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park: Lapins dwarf cherry (1) and Reliance peach (1).
Three trees were also planted at Bristol Consolidated School. One pear tree and two apple trees were chosen for this location so the fruit would ripen when the students were in school and they could enjoy it.
The park commissioners and director would like to recognize and sincerely thank those who donated to this project. The funding from the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation made this possible. Plants Unlimited in Rockport provided the trees with free delivery. Doug Craig, a Bristol resident, donated the fee for the equipment used to dig the holes. Jim Sargent, a Bristol resident and professional gardener, volunteered his time to research the types of trees, recommend locations, and assist with planting and taking care of the trees.
