What We Do

West Lafayette Tree Friends is a volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the economic, environmental, and health benefits of our community by planting and caring for trees in public right-of-ways.

Mission Statement

To plant trees and implement landscaping projects in West Lafayette’s public right-of-way.

How We Do It

• Seasonal Pruning: Regular street tree pruning keeps sidewalks and roads clear and safe.

• Operation Re-Leaf: In partnership with the City, we complete one or two major planting projects annually.

• Funding: Our work is supported by private donations, often matched by grants when available.

Who We Are

Founded in 1981 alongside the original Trees and Landscape Ordinance, West Lafayette Tree Friends is led by an elected Executive Committee. Elections are held on a rotating schedule:

• Odd-numbered years: Chair, Vice-Chair, and Member-at-Large

• Even-numbered years: Secretary and Treasurer

We also maintain two standing committees—Fundraising and Communications—with chairs appointed by the Tree Friends Chair. These roles continue indefinitely.

Executive Committee

• Paul Brennan, Chair – Term: [01/01/2024–12/31/2025]

• Becky Fry, Vice-Chair – Term: [01/01/2024–12/31/2025]

• Bob Voelz,  Member-at-Large – Term: [01/01/2024–12/31/2025]

• Nanci Forney, Secretary – Term: [01/01/2025–12/31/2026]

• Dennis Schlott, Treasurer – Term: [01/01/2025–12/31/2026]

• Bill Gass, Fundraising Chair – Appointed by WLTF Chair – Indefinite Term

• Cliff Sadoff, Communications Chair – Appointed by WLTF Chair – Indefinite Term

• Jennifer Gardiner, Greenspace Administrator – City Employee

• Brandon Hall, Greenspace Administrator – City Employee

When We Meet

We meet on the second Tuesday of every month at noon. Meetings are open to the public, all are welcome. Sub-committees meet throughout the month. View meeting agendas↗

Initiatives & Projects

Guided by our slogan—“Planters, Pruners, Protectors”—our key efforts include:

• Operation Re-Leaf – Annual tree planting program

• Arbor Day Celebration – Held each April

• Neighborhood Pruning – Seasonal upkeep in spring and fall

• Urban Leaves Newsletter – Subscribe here↗

Resources