With the support of a grant awarded by the U.S.D.A Forest Service in cooperation with the Florida Forest Service, the City of Destin enhanced the tree canopy at two local parks that had experienced significant tree loss in recent years.
This Fall 2025, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department planted a total of 12 trees across Kell-Aire Nature Walk and Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park.
Kell-Aire Nature Walk had lost 20 pine trees during a severe windstorm in 2024, while Nancy Weidenhamer Dog Park had lost nine pine trees between 2021 and 2024 due to a southern pine beetle infestation.
The grant allowed the City to restore these sites with a mix of live oak, willow, holly, and maple trees. Two of each species were planted at Kell-Aire Nature Walk, and one of each at the Dog Park. These new trees will provide additional shade, help reduce urban heat, and lower temperatures during hot weather, enhancing comfort for park visitors.
Both sites are equipped with irrigation systems and will be closely monitored during a 60-day establishment period.
“Trees play a crucial role in our parks in both functionality and symbolically,” said Tamara Young, Public Information Director. “The completion of this project aligns with our City’s broader environmental and livability goals, helping with air quality and carbon capture, temperature regulation, and being a natural habit for birds and pollinators.”
