PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Forest Environment is selling tree seedlings in bulk to landowners for use in such activities as reforestation, planting cleared areas, or Christmas tree stock. Sold in multiples of 250, the cost is $32 for two-year seedlings and $50 for three-year seedlings.

"Two hundred and fifty tree seedlings will cover about a quarter acre of an open field," said DEM Forester Tom Abbott. "If planted under an existing forest, the trees will cover an acre of land."

Available species include white spruce, Norway spruce, blue spruce, white pine, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, Balsam fir, Canaan fir and Japanese larch. With a minimum purchase of one 250-seedling package, landowners may purchase additional smaller packages specifically designed for projects such as windbreak protection and wildlife enhancement.

Those interested in applying for the seedlings or learning more about the program can contact DEM's Division of Forest Environment at 647-3367. Seedlings may be ordered now through the end of February.

Abbott is available to talk with landowners about tree planting strategies for their own property, including which species of trees are best suited for the site. He can be reached at the Division's Arcadia office at 539-2356. Staff from DEM's Division of Forest Environment can also provide general forestry assistance to Rhode Island landowners on a year-round basis. There is no charge for these services.

"These bulk seedlings tend to be of interest primarily to landowners with larger acreage," Abbott said. "People looking for a small quantity of trees and shrubs for ornamental purposes should contact their local Conservation District Office." The Northern District Office, in Greenville, can be reached at 949-1480. The telephone number for the Southern Conservation Office, in West Warwick, is 822-8832.