Cambridge Community Update

Village of Cambridge, NY

August 12.2025

Commemorative Tree Program: A Living Tribute

On August 6, 2025, the Village Board adopted a Commemorative Tree Donation Policy to help residents, families, and local groups honor people and milestones with a living tribute on village land.What the program offersA commemorative tree is a simple, meaningful way to celebrate an individual, a family event, or a community moment while strengthening our tree canopy and village character. Trees are planted only on Village-owned property or within public rights-of-way (think library grounds, municipal lawns, and approved planting strips along village streets). We do not plant or maintain trees on private property.How it works (the short version)Donation amount: $500 per tree, covering purchase, planting, and initial care.Where and when we plant: Sites are selected on Village property/ROW and plantings typically occur in spring and fall.Who decides species & location: Our Tree Committee, in consultation with the Superintendent of Public Works, matches species to site conditions for long-term health and safety.Plaque & recognition: Each tree may include a low-profile ground plaque (within character limits), and donors may also be listed on our website. Opt-out is available if you prefer privacy.Ownership & care: Commemorative trees are Village property. We’ll maintain them at our discretion; as living things, their lifespan isn’t guaranteed, and we may remove or replace as necessary.How to applyApplications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Tree Committee with Village staff, with final approvals by the Village. Approval depends on site availability, species suitability, and planting timelines.Submit the Commemorative Tree Application to the Clerk’s Office by any of the following:Email: clerk@cambridgeny.govIn person: 56 North Park Street during office hoursU.S. Mail: Village Clerk, Village of Cambridge, 56 North Park Street, Cambridge, NY 12816If you email your application, please note: payment must be received within five (5) business days to hold your planting slot.A few practical notesTransparency: Applications and donation records may be subject to public disclosure under NYS Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).Tax status: Donations under this program are not tax-deductible charitable contributions.Site suggestions welcome: You can propose a location on your application; final siting is determined by the Tree Committee and DPW to ensure the right tree in the right place.Ready to get started?Have questions or need accommodations? Contact the Village Clerk at (518) 677-2622 or clerk@cambridgeny.gov.Plant a memory. Grow our canopy. Leave something good for the next generation.

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April 17.2025

Big Day in Cambridge: Arbor Day Festival & Fire Department Open House - April 26

Saturday, April 26th is shaping up to be a true community day in the Village of Cambridge. From Durrin Park to the Cambridge Fire House, neighbors and families are invited to step out, pitch in, and connect with one another.🌳 The Tree Committee’s Arbor Day Festival kicks off at Durrin Park from 10AM - 2PM, with a celebration of spring — think trees, flowers, and community pride. It's the perfect time to clean up the yard, plant something new, or just enjoy the fresh air and friendly faces.🚒 Just across the way, the Cambridge Fire Department will be holding its RecruitNY Open House starting at 9AM. Residents of all ages can tour the firehouse, try on gear, meet local volunteers, and learn how to get involved — no firefighting experience required! There are all kinds of support roles available, and volunteers enjoy lifelong benefits: personal growth, professional development, and deep respect from the community.Whether you're planting a tree or thinking about stepping up for public service, April 26th is the day to get involved. The more we show up for each other, the stronger our village becomes — not just Cambridge, but the towns of White Creek and Jackson, too.Want to learn more about volunteering? Contact Melissa Spiezio at melissa.a.spiezio@gmail.com.Let’s make April 26th a day to remember — together.— Village of Cambridge, NY

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March 13.2025

Growing Together: Why Trees Matter in Cambridge & How You Can Help

If you take a walk through the Village of Cambridge, you’ll notice the beauty of our trees—lining our streets, shading our parks, and adding character to our community. But like any part of a living environment, our trees need care, and some areas could use more greenery. That’s why this year, we’re excited to host our first-ever Arbor Day celebration—a chance to plant new trees and appreciate the ones we have.But why does this matter? And what can we do as a community to protect and expand our tree canopy? Let’s take a look.The Issue: A Need for More TreesTrees do more than just look nice. They:✅ Improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and pollutants.✅ Provide shade and cooling, making summer days more bearable.✅ Prevent erosion and help manage stormwater runoff.✅ Support wildlife, creating homes for birds, pollinators, and other species.✅ Boost property values and make our streets more inviting.Unfortunately, in some areas of the village, we’ve lost trees due to storms, disease, or aging. Without replanting efforts, we risk losing the many benefits trees provide. Challenges & SolutionsLike any initiative, planting and maintaining trees in Cambridge comes with challenges:Challenge: Tree loss from storms, pests, and aging.✅ Solution: Regular tree health assessments and replanting in key areas.Challenge: Limited funding for tree planting and maintenance.✅ Solution: Seeking grants, fundraising, and community involvement.Challenge: Lack of awareness about proper tree care.✅ Solution: Public education through workshops, events, and community programs.How You Can Help🌳 Join Our Arbor Day Event!Come to Durrin Park on April 26th (10 AM - 2 PM) to help plant a tree, enjoy live music, and take part in a Village Tree Walk!🌱 Plant a Tree at HomeIf you have space, consider adding a tree to your yard. Native species are best for local wildlife and climate conditions.🤝 Volunteer with UsWe need community members to help with tree planting, care, and outreach. Whether you have experience or just enthusiasm, there’s a place for you!📢 Spread the WordEncourage neighbors, schools, and local businesses to get involved. The more people who care about our trees, the stronger our efforts will be. Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for CambridgeOur goal is to ensure that Cambridge remains a vibrant, tree-filled community for generations to come. By working together—residents, local officials, and volunteers—we can protect our tree canopy and enhance our village’s natural beauty.Want to get involved? Contact Adina at Trees@cambridgeny.gov for more information.Let’s make Cambridge greener, one tree at a time! 🌿💚

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Commemorative Tree Program: A Living Tribute

Big Day in Cambridge: Arbor Day Festival & Fire Department Open House - April 26

Growing Together: Why Trees Matter in Cambridge & How You Can Help

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