Conversation with Susan Stiltz

Current Position: Owner, Susan Stiltz Landscape Design & Consulting

What is/was your relationship to ReLeaf?

I worked at Tree Fresno from April 1991 to June 2005.  California ReLeaf and Tree Fresno grew up together and I relied on advice and financial grant support for our projects and development.

What did/does California ReLeaf mean to you?

California ReLeaf was instrumental in the success of Tree Fresno because it gave us the guidance, technical advice and financial support that we so desperately needed when we were starting.

Best memory or event of California ReLeaf?

My best memory is receiving grants from California ReLeaf to plant trees. It was such a blessing to have that funding when we struggled to raise it in the community. I was always grateful for that support. I’ve attended many workshops and I sat on the advisory committee one year. Although a lot of that time is a blur to me, every sense I have about California ReLeaf is positive.

Why is it important that California ReLeaf continue its Mission?

Trees continue to play a vital role in improving our climate, cooling our cities, creating beauty, shelter & shade, but they are often under attack because they drop leaves, require water to survive, raise sidewalks, etc.  It’s important that California ReLeaf continue to be an advocate for trees and a support for the grassroots groups that are planting and caring for them.