Arlington National Cemetery

Weed Man Springfield Volunteers at Arlington National Cemetery

Weed Man employees volunteer their time and lawn care services at our nation's most revered cemetery.

The oppressive heat and humidity gripping the East Coast was secondary to the dedication and commitment of approximately 450 lawn and landscape professionals who participated in the Professional Landcare Network’s (PLANET) Renewal and Remembrance project at Arlington National Cemetery.

With temperatures in the high 90s and a heat index over 100 degrees, about 100 companies from 29 states participated in the event which is in its 14th year. Renewal & Remembrance has become a not-to-be-missed event for many professionals who desire to volunteer their talents to the ongoing maintenance of the revered grounds at Arlington National Cemetery.

Weed Man was well represented at the event in their recognizable yellow and green uniforms. Representatives from Weed Man offices in Massachusetts, Ohio and Virginia attended the annual event.

“Participation in this respected industry event is a wonderful opportunity for our team to work side-by-side with lawn and landscape professionals from across the U.S. to enhance the turf at Arlington National Cemetery,” said Bruce Sheppard, a Weed Man business owner in Virginia.

Tom Mauer, a Weed Man business owner from Massachusetts added, “We feel it’s our responsibility to volunteer in this program. We’re proud to be in a position to provide valuable lawn care services to our country’s national cemetery.”

During the day of service, lawn and landscape professionals spread lime, aerated turf, planted trees and flowers and repaired irrigation systems at the military cemetery. The event also included a children’s program. This year, children received a lesson about the history of Arlington National Cemetery, planted perennials in a garden and participated in the laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“Your presence here is a statement that demonstrates your dedication to your country as well as the industry by presenting our industry issues to your legislators,” said PLANET president David Snodgrass. “You are not only representing yourself, your business and your state, but most importantly, our industry.”

The combined value of products and services donated to Arlington is $250,000. Over the years, the program has contributed approximately $2 million to the care of the national cemetery.

Other facts and figures from the event include:
• 55 children participated in the children’s activity
• 120 tons of lime was applied to 275 acres at Arlington National Cemetery
• 31 acres of turf was aerated
• 10 yards of soil was installed
• 7 yards of mulch was applied
• 22 trees and 6 shrubs were installed
• 60 perennials were planted
• 9 trees were pruned and received cabling and bracing
• 7 trees received lightning protection
• Irrigation systems at the Columbarium and Receiving Vault were updated