Charles Balbach Commemorative Tree Program
Grow a lasting legacy while supporting Buffalo’s Olmsted Parks
About the Charles Balbach Commemorative Tree Program
Mr. Balbach’s Lifelong Love of Trees
Charles Balbach cultivated his wooded property in Western New York with such care and intention that it resembled a personal arboretum — an expression of his lifelong love of trees. That same spirit guides the Conservancy in restoring, protecting, and growing Buffalo’s tree canopy.
Enhancing your Olmsted Landscapes with your Story
The Charles Balbach Commemorative Tree Program is inspired by his care for trees, providing a meaningful way for you to honor your loved ones while contributing to the vibrant tree cover that defines your Olmsted landscapes.
Plant a tree in honor of a special person, event, or milestone! Commemorative trees enhance your parks through beautification and contribute to the ecological value of the environment.
This program plants 1″-2″ caliper trees rather than saplings, which ensures each tree has the strongest possible start and the greatest chance to thrive for generations. Your support also includes intentional care and any replacement trees during its establishment period over 3 years.
Trees can be planted in specific zones in the following Olmsted spaces:
$1,250:
- Cazenovia Park
- Delaware Park
- South Park Arboretum
- Japanese Garden (only Cherry Trees)
The parks listed above have a focus on ornamental and specialty trees that offer exceptional beauty and visibility. Because these trees are more distinctive and require greater investment, commemorative plantings in these locations are priced accordingly.
$1,000:
- Front Park
- MLK, Jr. Park
- Riverside Park
- Prospect Park
A reduced rate is offered in these parks because they have higher reforestation needs and have experienced canopy loss from winter storms or diseases like Emerald Ash Borer.
Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind Before Buying Your Tree
- The cost of each tree (ranging from $1,000 to $1,250), supports watering, growth, and maintenance of your tree for the first three years
- Plantings occur once a year in the Fall. The deadline to purchase a commemorative tree for the seasonal planting is August 31st
- Tree payments are accepted in the form of check, cash, or credit card, whether by phone, in person, or online
- With the purchase of a tree, you will receive a framed Green Deed for yourself or to gift to someone
*Tree locations are subject to change as the Conservancy determines those areas based on reforestation needs*
For any inquiries, please contact: Commemorative@bfloparks.org or (716) 838-1249, ext. 31.
Frequently Asked Questions
For any questions or concerns, please reach out to Zhi@bfloparks.org or (716) 838-1249, ext. 31.
Can I choose where my tree is planted?
Yes! You’re welcome to choose which Olmsted park your commemorative tree will be planted in. Within each park, our forestry team plants tribute trees in designated zones to promote healthy growth of your tree and meet reforestation needs. This ensures your gift is placed where it will have the greatest impact!
Can I pick the type of tree?
Yes! We have a pre-approved list of trees that are available to choose from. Subject to availability.
When will my tree be planted?
If you purchase your tree and complete payment by August 31st, your tree will be planted in the fall of the same year.
Is my tree purchase tax-deductible?
Yes! Each commemorative gift is fully tax-deductible and non-refundable.
Why are there different price points for the trees?
A reduced rate is offered in parks with greater reforestation needs, such as areas that have experienced canopy loss due to Emerald Ash Borer.
A copy of the latest annual report filed with the NYS Charities Bureau may be obtained, upon request, at the office of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, Inc., 84 Parkside Ave., Buffalo, NY 14214 or from the NYS Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10271. The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your donation is tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
