The Franklin Township Shade Tree Commission will plant two Dawn Redwood trees at each of the eight Franklin Township public schools on Wednesday September 11th to commemorate the attacks on America of 9/11.

These magnificent trees, once thought extinct, were rediscovered in 1948 and seeds brought to America. The species, known as Metasequoia glyptostroboides, is unique in that it is a deciduous conifer, dropping its needles in the fall after they turn a bronze-yellow. Extremely fast-growing and hardy, the Dawn Redwood can grow at a rate of 3-6 feet per year, reaching a stately 90-120 feet in height for mature trees. The size and appearance of the trees make them a perfect selection to demonstrate the strength and resilience of the American people. The planting of two trees at each site will commemorate the two World Trade Center towers.

The trees will be donated by Jeff Baumley, owner of Baumley's nursery on Route 27 in Franklin and a member of the Shade Tree Commission. Materials, including mulch, will be donated by Pulte Homebuilders.

A tree planting ceremony will be held at 2 pm on September 11th at each school. Each school will also have a ceremony at 8:30 am and there will be a 12 pm ceremony at Franklin High School.

Questions may be addressed to, and further information obtained from Michael Orsini, chair of the Franklin Township Shade Tree Commission at 732-568-0368 or 908-704-4355 or by e-mail at franklintrees@aol.com.