Bainbridge is known for its large oak trees, and the Tree Committee and Downtown Development Authority are working to maintain that tradition with the Planting for the Future campaign.

The campaign is part of the Downtown Master Plan, said DDA executive director Amanda Glover. The purpose of the campaign is to raise money for beautifying Bainbridge’s streets, especially around the entrances to the city.

“We’re known for the city of oaks, and some of the trees are rotting or dying, and this can help create more landmark trees for future generations to enjoy,” Glover said.

Residents can become sponsors of the project through one of the three sponsorship levels:

Garden Spot is a $100 sponsorship that will pay for five-gallon trees, shrubbery, annual and landscaping plants.

Curb Appeal is a $300 sponsorship for seven-and 15-gallon trees and large landscaped beds.

Legacy Oaks is a $500 sponsorship made in honor of someone passed. Thirty-gallon oak trees will be placed in prominent locations throughout the city. These trees will be landmark trees and the sponsor can choose an inscription for its plaque.

The Tree Committee and DDA are working with Jeff Jeter from In The Garden to decide the best types of smaller plants and trees to place in various parts of the city.

Glover said that there are already about 10 sponsors, and that more than $9,000 has been raised for the project.

One area the Tree Committee plans to focus on first is near the Calhoun Street bridge coming into Downtown Bainbridge.

The end goal, Glover said, is to have citywide tree plantings, but first there are some areas that will warrant attention first.

Anyone interested in making a donation to the project, which would be tax-deductible, can contact Amanda or find a Planting for the Future brochure in City Hall or in businesses around town.