Rooting for a Greener Corning
About Us
Since 2017, the Corning Street Tree Project has been driven by a simple belief: our neighborhoods are at their best when they are shaded, green, and vibrant. What started as a small group of neighbors concerned about our local tree canopy has grown into a community-wide movement.
To date, we have successfully planted 147 trees across Corning, NY. You’ve likely seen our work while walking down your street - young trees growing strong thanks to the dedicated volunteers who planted them and the neighbors who water them.
Get Involved
Request a Tree
Is there empty space between the road and sidewalk in front of your property? Sign up here to get a tree planted.
Request Tree
Donate
We rely on donations to buy saplings and watering bags. Each tree planted costs ~$150. Consider donating today!
Volunteer
We are run entirely by volunteers. Join us to plant saplings, track tree health, or help with community outreach!
How It Works & FAQs
Eligibility & Right-of-Way:Trees are planted exclusively within the City of Corning in the municipal right-of-way (the lawn area between the curb and sidewalk). Tree requests must be approved by the property owner; renters should coordinate with their landlord.
Cost & Species Selection:All trees are 100% free! Our foresters select species based on soil type, sunlight, and power line clearance, but donors who contribute $150 or more get to choose their tree variety from our approved list.
The Planting Process:First, we handle UDig (811) safety utility checks. Next, our team marks the site. Finally, CSTP volunteers dig, plant, mulch, and install a GatorBag watering bag. Property owners are welcome to join in and help plant!
Homeowner Care Pledge:Recipients commit to filling the tree's GatorBag twice a week (10–12 gallons total) from spring through fall for the first two years.
Mulching & Tree Safety:Avoid "mulch volcanoes" - always mound mulch in a donut shape around the trunk so water drains toward the roots. Keep weed whackers and mowers clear of the young bark.
Fall Planting 2026 🍂
As we prepare for our upcoming fall planting cycle, we are reaching out to residents on our waiting list to confirm tree requests. If you’ve signed up but haven't heard from our team yet, rest assured you remain on our list for future planting cycles!
Our fall species list will be published in a few weeks. Before planting day, our team will visit your site to evaluate soil type, sunlight exposure, and surrounding canopy to match your property with the perfect tree.
Why Urban Trees Matter
Small Saplings, Big Impact for Our City
🌱 Cooler Summers: Natural shade lowers neighborhood pavement temperatures by up to 10°F while trimming utility costs.
🐦 Cleaner Air & Habitats — Canopy trees absorb stormwater, filter urban pollutants, and build lively micro-ecosystems for local birds.
🏡 Stronger Roots — Green streets boost home values and create welcoming, vibrant places to walk, gather, and grow.
Partnerships
Piper Insurance
Piper Insurance, a trusted, local, independent insurance agency in Corning, serves as a dedicated partner. For every policy they sell, this agency makes a donation to the project, investing in the health of the local environment! The president, Christy Kager, is a self-proclaimed unabashed tree hugger!
Learn More about Piper Insurance
Corning Southside Neighborhood Association
The Southside Neighborhood Association (SNA) has a long-standing tradition of planting trees in the Historic District. Together, we are maximizing our reach and resources, ensuring that Corning’s canopy is not just preserved, but expanded for generations to come!
CSTP in the News
CSTP | Watch our Fall 2025 Planting Video ▶
WENY | Local Group Planting Trees in Corning Hits Major Milestone ↗
WSKG | Corning Nonprofit Plants 100th Tree ↗
The Leader | CSTP and Southside Neighborhood Association Announce Partnership ↗
My Twin Tiers | Corning Street Tree Project Hits 100 Trees Planted ↗