FCWC Student Network Plants Trees at City Hall

NEW ROCHELLE – The City of New Rochelle joined the Federated Conservationists of Westchester County (FCWC) Student Network, a group of motivated high school and college-aged environmental activists, for a ceremonial tree planting in front of City Hall on Friday, November 5th. FCWC Student Network spearheaded the event and planted an October Glory Red Maple in recognition of the Climate Emergency declared by Council earlier this year.

“I want to thank the Federated Conservationists of Westchester County Student Network for their generous donation of a youth-led tree planting to commemorate the passage of New Rochelle’s Climate Emergency Declaration,” said New Rochelle City Council Member Sara Kaye. “Our youth leaders have clarity about the action that is necessary and the need to act now. By working to build a cleaner and more resilient, equitable, and just future, New Rochelle will continue to lead the way along with other forward-thinking cities around the world.”

In May 2021, New Rochelle became the first city in Westchester to officially declare a climate emergency.

“When we heard about this historic move by the city, we wanted to recognize the bold leadership of Council Member Kaye, the City Council, and the City of New Rochelle. Unprecedented times require clear-cut goals and strong leadership,” said Student Network Co-Chair Dylan Klein.

The Federated Conservationists of Westchester County’s mission is to provide leadership that educates about environmental issues, advocates sound decision making, and unifies groups and individuals to protect and preserve Westchester’s environment and address climate change. The FCWC Student Network aims to amplify the voices of the youth within Westchester County and encourage them to create relationships with their municipalities, working towards the common goal of climate action and resolution. The group was founded by Paul Presendieu, a New Rochelle resident and FCWC Board member.