Natrona Heights group proposes more trees on ballfields

A project to plant 13 trees at the youth baseball fields on the perimeter of Highlands High School would provide shade, absorb rainwater and protect fans from fly balls, according to a proposal being considered by the Highlands School Board.

Chris Cottone, a member of the Natrona Heights Baseball & Softball Association (NHBSA), submitted a request to have three trees each behind two of the fields, another two trees by the concession stand and the remainder near California Avenue.

“We are requesting the trees because they will provide added drainage and added protection to deflect foul balls,” Cottone said in a letter to the board.

When the trees mature, they will provide shady spots for fans and will continue the beautification of NHBSA’s park-like setting, he said.

The volunteer-run organization is marking its 75th year in the township.

The property where the fields sit is owned by the school district.

Harrison Commissioner Chuck Dizard facilitates tree plantings several times a year in the township through the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and TreeVitalize.

He said if the school board approves the trees at the youth baseball fields, they would be planted by volunteers at the end of October or in early November.

The project would come at no cost to the district.

“With the old Riverview School renovated now, that whole end of the street is looking first class,” Dizard said. “The trees would definitely help with the shade. The heat has been rugged this year.”

Dizard said 225 trees have been planted through the township’s partnership with the conservancy, with “a good percentage on school property.”

The board will consider the request during its meeting at 7 p.m. Monday.